Clashes Erupt Again Between Ultra-Orthodox and Secular Protesters at Jerusalem Cafe Over Sabbath Opening

For the second consecutive Saturday, tensions flared at the "Basemta" cafe on Agripas Street in Jerusalem due to its operation on the Sabbath. Ultra-Orthodox protesters arrived this morning to demonstrate against the cafe's opening on the holy day, reigniting controversy from the previous week. Many local residents showed up in support of the cafe, resulting in a long queue outside the establishment.

As the ultra-Orthodox demonstrators gathered, secular residents confronted them, shouting slogans such as "Enlist!" The situation escalated into confrontations, prompting police intervention. Authorities warned the dozens of protesters that their actions constituted an illegal disturbance and ordered them to disperse, threatening to use force if they failed to comply.

The cafe has become a focal point in the ongoing Sabbath debate in Jerusalem, symbolizing the broader societal conflict over religious observance and public life. The establishment emphasized the need to reject hatred amid the clashes, underscoring the sensitive nature of the dispute.