Jerusalem Cafe May Close on Saturdays Amid Ultra-Orthodox Protests

The Jerusalem cafe "Basemta," a target of regular protests by ultra-Orthodox activists for operating on the Sabbath, is considering closing on Saturdays. A representative for the establishment stated that a final decision will be made in the coming days. Since early July, dozens of Haredi demonstrators, including minors, have held weekly protests outside the cafe. These demonstrations have sometimes involved participants banging on windows, overturning tables, and attempting to force entry. Last month, one protester attached a lock to the cafe's door, briefly delaying its opening. Concurrently, counter-protests supporting the cafe's Saturday operations have been taking place. Police are present near the establishment to prevent clashes between the groups. The situation has drawn additional attention due to the cafe's affiliation with the "Jews for Jesus" organization, of which "Basemta" is an official project. "Jews for Jesus" engages in missionary work aimed at converting Jews to Christianity.