A new photo essay by James Hamilton, published by the Times of Israel, documents the scene at Cafe Basmeta in Jerusalem, where Haredi protesters object to the cafe's Shabbat operation and secular activists arrive to support it. The essay captures the ongoing social flashpoint over Sabbath observance in the capital.
The Times of Israel has published a new photo essay by James Hamilton, documenting the Saturday morning scene at Cafe Basmeta in Jerusalem. The essay captures the dual presence of Haredi protesters, who object to the cafe's operation on Shabbat, and secular activists who come to support the business.
The protests at Basmeta have been a recurring social flashpoint in Jerusalem. The Zioneer has previously reported on the demonstrations: on July 4, Haredi activists overturned tables and banged on windows; on July 11, a long line of supporters gathered; on July 18, secular supporters rallied for a third consecutive Saturday; and on August 8, customers again flocked to the cafe. The photo essay adds a visual dimension to the ongoing tension, which has drawn attention to the broader debate over Sabbath observance in the capital.
The essay does not report new developments but offers a grounded, on-the-ground perspective of the weekly ritual. The Israel Police maintain a presence to separate the groups, and the protest remains a localized but symbolically charged event.
2 developments
- DevelopingHaredi protesters overturn tables, bang on windows at Jerusalem cafe open on Shabbat
- DevelopingSecular supporters rally at Jerusalem cafe as Haredi protests continue for third Saturday
- StrongHaredi protesters clash with police outside Jerusalem's Cafe Basmeta on Shabbat; minor arrested
- DevelopingLong line of supporters at Jerusalem cafe a week after Haredi protest
Source and signal
- Open-source intake