Haredi Protesters Clash With Secular Patrons at Jerusalem Cafe Open on Sabbath

Tensions flared in Jerusalem as dozens of Haredi men and boys protested outside Cafe Basimta, a recently opened establishment that operates on the Sabbath. The demonstration, which has occurred for five consecutive weeks, escalated into clashes with secular patrons and police when protesters breached barricades. This latest protest appeared to be the largest yet, drawing significant attention.

“

It cannot be that having a cup of coffee on Saturday morning turns into an act of civil courage.

Cafe Basimta is one of a few businesses in Jerusalem that remain open during the Jewish day of rest, a practice that has drawn repeated harassment from ultra-Orthodox demonstrators. Videos circulating on social media show secular customers and police confronting protesters, with one patron seen pulling at a demonstrator's prayer shawl in an attempt to prevent entry into the cafe.

Police intervention became forceful only when protesters neared breaking into the cafe, using batons to disperse the crowd, according to reports. Organizers had reportedly appealed to more ultra-Orthodox communities to join the demonstration, contributing to the increased turnout.

“

The vandalism we’re seeing behind me, all of this just proves that these guys need to channel their energy against Hamas, against Hezbollah, against the Houthis, but not here in Jerusalem, against peaceful citizens.

Avigdor Liberman, leader of the opposition party Yisrael Beytenu, visited the cafe to express solidarity. He criticized the situation, stating, "It cannot be that having a cup of coffee on Saturday morning turns into an act of civil courage." Liberman suggested the protesters' energy would be better channeled towards fighting groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, rather than confronting peaceful citizens in Jerusalem. He also alluded to future government actions, implying that a change in power would redirect the focus of the ultra-Orthodox community.

“

When we come to power, they won’t have time to protest. They’ll all be running in basic training.