Police Use Force to Disperse Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Against Jerusalem Cafe Open on Sabbath

On Saturday, violent clashes erupted on Agripas Street in Jerusalem as hundreds of ultra-Orthodox protesters gathered to oppose the opening of the 'Basemta' cafe on the Sabbath. The protesters confronted patrons inside the cafe, attempting to block their way, which led to police and Border Police forces intervening with batons to disperse the crowd and prevent them from forcibly entering the establishment.

This protest marked a significant increase in participation compared to previous weeks, reflecting growing tensions over Sabbath observance in the predominantly ultra-Orthodox neighborhood. The ongoing demonstrations have been a response to the cafe's decision to operate on the holy day, which many in the community view as a desecration.

During the protest, Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, arrived at the scene to show support for the cafe. His presence was met with hostile chants from the protesters, including calls for him to "return to communist Russia."

The Jerusalem District Police stated that officers from the capital's station, along with riot and Border Police units, acted to prevent the protesters from entering the cafe by force, removed those involved, and maintained public order until the protest ended.