Ultra-Orthodox Rioters Attack Deputy Chief Justice’s Home in Israel, Sparking National Condemnation
On June 3, 2026, Deputy Chief Justice Noam Sohlberg’s home in the Alon Shvut settlement was attacked by ultra-Orthodox rioters, an incident that has ignited widespread condemnation and raised concerns about the erosion of Israel’s judicial independence.
The Violent Incident and Immediate Aftermath
Dozens of demonstrators, protesting government efforts to draft Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men into the military, vandalized Sohlberg’s residence. The rioters shattered windows, destroyed flowerpots, and damaged a vehicle in the garage. A small Israeli flag with a swastika replaced the Star of David, according to reports.
Police arrested 62 individuals in connection with the attack. The suspects were later brought before a judge for a hearing on extending their detention. Police also seized GoPro cameras and drones used by the protesters, who had arrived “organized” with equipment intended for vandalism, as noted by Chief Superintendent Mirit Ben Mior.
Judicial Leaders Condemn the Attack
Chief Justice Isaac Amit, along with Judge Tzahi Ouziel, condemned the violence in a letter to court staff, calling it an “attack on the entire judicial system and the rule of law.” Amit emphasized that “efforts to intimidate judges will not work,” vowing that Israel’s judiciary would “continue to carry out their work professionally, independently, and without fear.”
The incident drew sharp criticism from political leaders, including President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu’s coalition has been pushing legislation to exempt Haredi men from military service, a policy that has fueled tensions with the ultra-Orthodox community.
Broader Implications for Israeli Democracy
Former Supreme Court President Dorit Beinisch warned that the attack marks a “severe deterioration of democratic rule,” citing a growing culture of “violence, thuggery, and the abolition of the principles of the rule of law.” She criticized the government for undermining judicial authority, pointing to Justice Minister Yariv Levin’s recent assertion that he would not comply with a High Court ruling.
Ultra-Orthodox factions, including United Torah Judaism (UTJ) and Shas, issued statements condemning the violence but also expressed frustration with the judiciary. UTJ leader Yitzhak Goldknopf stated, “There is no place for violence in our camp,” while acknowledging the “persecution” of Torah scholars by Supreme Court justices.
Public Outcry and Community Impact
Sohaib Gesundheit, a neighbor of Sohlberg, described being spat on and verbally abused by protesters who chanted, “Hitler, run away!” He condemned the incident as a “chilul Hashem” (desecration of God’s name) under Jewish tradition. The attack has intensified fears of rising social polarization in Israel, with critics warning of a dangerous precedent for democratic norms.
Looking Ahead: A Test for Israel’s Judicial System
The incident underscores the deepening rift between Israel’s judiciary and segments of the ultra-Orthodox community, exacerbated by ongoing debates over military conscription and religious autonomy. As the judicial authority pledges to “take any action necessary to protect judges,” the event serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions in the face of political and social unrest.