Clashes broke out between Haredi worshippers and patrons of a cafe in Jerusalem on Saturday, reportedly for the second consecutive week. The incident is the latest in a series of confrontations over businesses open on Shabbat.
This Saturday, for the second consecutive week, clashes erupted between Haredi protesters and patrons of the HaSimta cafe on Agrippas Street in Jerusalem. According to reports from journalist Inbar Twizer (N12), protesters shouted 'Sheva'as' and 'Titgaysu' before police forcibly removed them. The incident is the latest in a series of confrontations over Shabbat commerce in the city.
The Zioneer has been tracking the story throughout the day. Earlier today at 10:47 Jerusalem, a long line of supporters gathered at the cafe, a week after a violent protest by Edah HaCharedit activists on July 4, during which tables were overturned and windows banged on. By 11:21 Jerusalem, the first reports of today's clashes emerged, with Twizer noting the second consecutive Saturday of confrontations. Soon after, reports detailed chants from the protesters and police intervention. Deputy Mayor Adir Schwartz (Hit'orerut) confirmed that extremists had arrived to intimidate the business owner and said his movement's activists were present throughout the day to support the cafe.
The broader context of the protests over Shabbat observance in Jerusalem has been covered by The Zioneer. On July 4, Edah HaCharedit activists violently protested the cafe's operation on Shabbat. On Friday, July 10, neighborhood residents announced a planned protest. The deputy mayor's statement today characterized the protesters as a 'handful of extremists' and pledged to continue protecting a 'free Jerusalem that belongs to everyone.'
It remains unclear whether any injuries were sustained during the clashes or if arrests were made. The Zioneer will continue to monitor the situation.
6 developments
- DevelopingHaredi protesters overturn tables, bang on windows at Jerusalem cafe open on Shabbat
- DevelopingLong line of supporters at Jerusalem cafe a week after Haredi protest
- DevelopingJerusalem residents announce Shabbat protest against cafe opening on Agrippas Street
- StrongSevere brawl between secular Israelis and Haredi protesters
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