Ultra-Orthodox Protest Jerusalem Cafe Open on Sabbath Amid Secular Support

For the third consecutive Saturday, ultra-Orthodox protesters gathered outside the Jerusalem cafe "Basemta," which operates on the Sabbath, shouting slogans such as "Stop destroying Jerusalem." The cafe, located on Agripas Street near King George Street in a predominantly secular area, has become a focal point of tension since opening about six weeks ago. Dozens of secular supporters also arrived to back the cafe owners, leading police to intervene and set up barriers to prevent clashes between the groups.

Previous Saturdays saw confrontations between the ultra-Orthodox protesters and secular patrons, including shouting matches and physical altercations. Police had to forcibly remove some protesters and even engaged with a customer who was thrown down stairs. The cafe owner, Yoel Ben David, emphasized that the business does not intend to disturb anyone, noting that most seating is indoors and the cafe is located in an alley rather than on a main street.

Adir Schwartz, Jerusalem's deputy mayor and chairman of the "Awakening" movement, visited the site with activists, condemning the extremist attempts to intimidate the business and the city's secular residents. He pledged continued support for local businesses and maintaining Jerusalem as a free city for all. Supporters from various neighborhoods, including Ein Kerem and Rehavia, expressed their commitment to defending the cafe against harassment, criticizing the use of children in protests and calling for clear boundaries to protect secular lifestyles.

The ongoing protests highlight the deep divisions in Jerusalem over Sabbath observance and public life, with the cafe symbolizing broader cultural and religious conflicts in the city. Police remain on site each Saturday to maintain order and prevent escalation.

Summary: Ultra-Orthodox protesters have repeatedly demonstrated against the Jerusalem cafe "Basemta" for opening on the Sabbath, prompting police intervention and secular community support to protect the business and uphold freedom of lifestyle in the city.

Points: - Ultra-Orthodox protesters repeatedly demonstrate against Sabbath-opening cafe in Jerusalem. - Secular supporters arrive each week to back the cafe owners amid tensions. - Police set up barriers and intervene to prevent violent clashes. - Deputy Mayor Adir Schwartz condemns extremist intimidation and supports local businesses. - Cafe owner emphasizes no intent to disturb and highlights indoor seating location. - Protesters’ use of children and violence draws criticism from secular supporters.

Topic: general

Entities: {"people":["Yoel Ben David","Adir Schwartz"],"organizations":["Awakening movement","Jerusalem Police"],"places":["Jerusalem","Agripas Street","King George Street","Ein Kerem","Rehavia"]}