Residents of Arad Organize Large Protest Against Gur Hasidic Community Over Municipal Control
A major protest is scheduled for Thursday evening in Arad, Israel, where secular and general public residents plan to demonstrate against the Gur Hasidic community. The protest, organized amid rising tensions and recent violent clashes between Gur Hasidim and local residents, aims to challenge what protesters describe as discriminatory municipal enforcement and the community's growing control over the city. Noam Cohen, one of the protest leaders, explained that the original parade route was denied by police, resulting in a revised path through Yehuda Street rather than the main street near the Gur synagogue. The demonstration will start at 6 p.m. at the Arad Country Club plaza and proceed to the commercial center for a rally.
Cohen criticized the city administration for allegedly handing over key municipal departments such as engineering and finance to the Gur community, while ignoring violations like illegal hotels and construction by the Hasidim. He also highlighted a perceived double standard in law enforcement, with fines issued to local businesses but not to Gur establishments. Protesters prepared provocative signs featuring the Gur Rebbe’s image with slogans like "Not in Arad" and "You will decide nothing," aiming to pressure the community’s spiritual leader, whom Cohen described as a "forced rabbi" and the only figure capable of negotiating a resolution.
Despite warnings that such imagery might offend religious residents, Cohen insisted on the necessity of the provocation to draw attention to the issue. He expressed hope the protest would remain peaceful but acknowledged younger residents are less intimidated by police presence. Cohen also revealed that authorities initially tried to block the protest, but organizers issued an ultimatum and secured approval. The protest leaders emphasize their movement is not against the Gur community as individuals but demands equality and fair treatment. Cohen called on neighboring cities to support the demonstration, warning that if the Gur community’s influence continues unchecked, it could extend beyond Arad to control larger parts of Israel.
