Kvutza Bochur Arrested at Ben-Gurion Airport Over Draft Evasion Following End of Special IDF Arrangement

A Chabad bochur who returned to Israel this week after completing a year of Kvutza was detained upon arrival at Ben-Gurion Airport, following the recent cancellation of the long-standing arrangement between Chabad and the Israeli military authorities.

According to a source familiar with the situation, this is believed to be the first arrest of a student returning from the Kvutza of 5785 (2024–2025). Dozens of additional bochurim are expected to return to Israel in the coming weeks, raising concerns that more detentions may follow.

The bochur, who spent the past year learning in Tomchei Tmimim in 770, was reportedly taken into custody immediately after landing.

That unique arrangement was nullified earlier this year following intervention by the Israeli Supreme Court, and amid new enforcement measures relating to the military draft law. As a result, Israeli yeshiva students returning from abroad now face legal uncertainty, with some potentially subject to detention upon arrival.

Within the Chabad community, there is growing concern for the many bochurim still set to return home in the coming days. Parents, Hahnala members, and communal leaders are said to be exploring all possible avenues to resolve the situation.