Jerusalem Cafe Faces Stone-Throwing Protest Over Sabbath Opening, Secures Secular Support

A newly opened cafe in Jerusalem's "Basemta" alley became the center of a confrontation on Saturday when dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters objected to its operation during the Sabbath. The demonstrators threw stones at the cafe's windows and overturned a table, with four waves of protests occurring throughout the day, according to eyewitness Lior Achmash. In response, dozens of secular residents from across the city arrived to support the business, forming a human barrier at the entrance to protect it.

Yoel Ben David, the cafe owner, told N12 that he attempted to engage with the protesters, emphasizing that the cafe does not disturb anyone as it has no outdoor speakers and is located inside a small alley rather than on a main street. Supporters like Nofar from the Ein Kerem neighborhood and Michael from Beit HaKerem expressed their determination to preserve such venues in Jerusalem, noting the rarity of similar options in the city.

Ben David lamented the involvement of children among the protesters and highlighted the strong backing from the secular community, which at one point built a physical barrier to shield the cafe's entrance. Raz, a young man from Rehavia, also came after seeing social media footage, condemning the violent actions and calling for clear boundaries to protect secular residents. He vowed continued support, stating it is unacceptable for teenagers to throw stones and overturn tables without sufficient protection for the cafe.

The incident underscores ongoing tensions in Jerusalem between ultra-Orthodox communities and secular residents over public life on the Sabbath, with this cafe becoming a flashpoint for broader cultural conflicts.