Tensions Flare as Ultra-Orthodox Protest Secular Café in Jerusalem on Shabbat

On Saturday morning, dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters gathered near the secular café "Basemta" on Agripas Street in Jerusalem, continuing weeks of weekly demonstrations against the café's operation on Shabbat. The police blocked access to the café, relocating the protest slightly farther away, but clashes still erupted as protesters attempted to breach police barriers and confronted officers. Counter-protesters, mostly secular supporters of the café, also demonstrated in favor of the business.

The café, which opened in spring, has become a focal point of tension between ultra-Orthodox and secular communities in Jerusalem. The protests, ongoing since early July, are led by activists from the Edah HaChareidis, a hardline ultra-Orthodox group opposing the state's legitimacy, but also receive backing from mainstream ultra-Orthodox figures including Deputy Mayor Tzachi Barim and City Council member Yohanan Weitzman.

Last week, violent confrontations occurred when ultra-Orthodox protesters tried to block café patrons from entering, prompting police to disperse the crowd with batons. Video footage showed a man wrapped in a prayer shawl attempting to enter the café while secular customers formed a human barrier to prevent him. The café manager, Yoel Ben David, has vowed to continue operating and expand outdoor seating, noting that some religious customers also frequent the establishment.

The ongoing protests have included violent incidents and vandalism on several Saturdays, reflecting broader cultural and religious conflicts over Jerusalem's character and public life on Shabbat.