Jerusalem Cafe Owner Files Police Complaint After Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Attack on Sabbath

A newly opened cafe in central Jerusalem faced violent protests from dozens of ultra-Orthodox extremists during the Sabbath after deciding to operate on weekends. Owner Yoel Ben David told N12 that about 20 ultra-Orthodox protesters initially shouted "Shabas" and disturbed customers on Saturday morning. Later, a larger group of around 50 people, including children, approached the cafe, overturning tables, banging on windows, and breaking one table. Customers formed a line to block their entry, and police were called to disperse the protesters.

Ben David described the escalating harassment as frightening but affirmed his commitment to keep the cafe open on the Sabbath. He filed a police complaint with video evidence of the incidents, hoping the hostility would subside. He expressed disappointment over the attacks, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and coexistence in Jerusalem.

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion condemned the violence, stressing the city's diversity and the importance of respecting the status quo and public order. He affirmed that violence is unacceptable and pledged to uphold the delicate social fabric allowing all residents to live together peacefully.

The cafe owner highlighted community support amid the tensions and called for tolerance, saying, "Live and let live." The incident reflects ongoing tensions in Jerusalem over Sabbath observance and public space usage, with the owner hopeful for peaceful coexistence moving forward.