Police Clash With Ultra-Orthodox Protesters at Jerusalem Cafe Open on Shabbat

Police used batons to disperse dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters on Saturday after they attempted to force their way into Cafe Basimta in central Jerusalem. The demonstration marked the fifth consecutive week that Haredi protesters have targeted the business for remaining open on the Jewish day of rest. Protesters reportedly broke through police barricades and clashed with secular patrons who attempted to block their entry. Some protesters were seen banging on windows, while customers responded by shouting for them to enlist in the military.

Avigdor Liberman, head of the right-wing opposition party Yisrael Beytenu, visited the cafe to show support. He described the protests as vandalism and stated that the demonstrators should channel their energy toward fighting Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis instead of peaceful citizens. Liberman added that if his party comes to power, these individuals would be required to undergo basic military training. Yair Golan, chairman of the Democrats Party, also expressed support for the cafe and accused police of failing to protect the liberal public from extremists.

Cafe owner Yoel Ben David has stated that he respects the religious community and believes both groups should be able to observe Shabbat as they choose. He noted that some kippah-wearing residents have visited the cafe to offer their support and apologize for the protesters. While secular Israelis have flocked to the establishment in solidarity, some support has waned after reports emerged that the cafe is an official project of the Christian missionary organization Jews for Jesus. This connection led the Hapoel Jerusalem soccer team to retract a previous offer of free advertising on player uniforms.