Israeli police detain 23 religious Jews for protesting

JERUSALEM

Israeli police on Thursday detained 23 religious Jews after they staged demonstrations in West Jerusalem against compulsory military service.

According to a police statement, the arrests were carried out after “scores of protesters blocked roads and traffic, undermining security”.

All Israelis must perform compulsory military service at the age of 18.

Under current Israeli law, however, religious Jews -- who ostensibly engage in “full-time religious studies” -- are exempted from serving.