Clashes Erupt Again Between Haredi Worshippers and Café Patrons in Jerusalem

For the second consecutive Saturday, confrontations broke out between Haredi protesters and patrons at the Basmata café in central Jerusalem. The café, which opened about a month ago on Agripas Street near King George Street, has become a flashpoint due to its operation during the Sabbath, a rarity in this predominantly secular area.

On July 11, dozens gathered to support the café against the Haredi protesters who shouted "Shabas" at the customers, who responded with calls of "Enlist". Police were deployed early to maintain order and forcibly removed some of the Haredi demonstrators, leading to a physical altercation in which a café supporter was thrown down stairs.

The tensions follow similar protests the previous week, when the café first became a focal point of controversy. Supporters from across Jerusalem, including Nofar from the distant Ein Kerem neighborhood, have come to back the café, emphasizing the need to preserve such secular spaces in the city. Nofar stated, "We faced shouting but it won't deter us, places like this are rare in Jerusalem." The situation highlights ongoing cultural and religious friction over Sabbath observance in the city.

Authorities continue to monitor the site as the conflict between secular residents and Haredi groups persists, with no resolution yet in sight.