Violent Anti-Israel Protests Erupt in NYC’s Orthodox Jewish Neighborhood
Executive Summary
An anti-Israel protest in Brooklyn’s Boro Park escalated into violence as demonstrators chanted genocidal slogans against Jews and Zionists. Organized by the pro-Palestinian group Pal-Awda, the protest targeted an Israeli real estate expo, with participants calling for the annihilation of Zionists and engaging in physical clashes with counterprotesters. The event follows a series of escalating anti-Israel demonstrations across the U.S., with similar rallies blocking traffic in major cities and raising concerns over rising antisemitism.
Analysis
The February 18 protest in Boro Park, a predominantly Orthodox Jewish neighborhood, was marked by inflammatory rhetoric and violent confrontations. Protesters recited an Islamic prayer calling for the extermination of Zionists, while others shouted, “Zionists go to hell” and “settlers, go back home.” Footage shows skirmishes breaking out, prompting a heavy police response.
Key Developments
Violence and Arrests: At least one person was arrested after a 61-year-old Jewish man was punched in the face. A large knife was also found at the scene, though police have not confirmed its use in an attack.
Islamic Prayer Calling for Violence: A protest leader publicly supplicated, asking Allah to “annihilate the criminal Zionists” and “kill them one by one.”
Targeting of Jewish Institutions: The protest was aimed at disrupting an Israeli real estate expo, which activists claim promotes the sale of “stolen Palestinian land.”
Political Condemnation: NYC Representative Ritchie Torres condemned the demonstration, calling it “a pro-Hamas mob targeting Jews.”
Nationwide Trend: The protest is part of a growing wave of anti-Israel demonstrations, including airport blockades and campus protests, raising concerns about increasing antisemitism in public spaces.
These events highlight the troubling escalation of anti-Israel activism into overt violence and hate speech. Law enforcement officials and Jewish advocacy groups have called for stronger measures to prevent future incidents.
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