Anti-Israel protesters clashed violently with residents in a predominantly Orthodox Jewish neighborhood in New York City, sparking outrage and condemnation from political leaders.
Quick Takes
- Violent protest erupted in Borough Park, Brooklyn, organized by pro-Palestinian group Pal-Awda
- Protesters chanted anti-Zionist slogans and clashed with local Jewish residents
- One arrest made for assault; a large knife was found but not used in any attack
- Political leaders, including Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, strongly condemned the protest
- Event highlights ongoing tensions following Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023
Violent Clash in Orthodox Jewish Neighborhood
On Tuesday evening, the streets of Borough Park, Brooklyn—a neighborhood known for its large Orthodox Jewish population—erupted in chaos as anti-Israel protesters clashed with local residents. The demonstration, organized by the New York chapter of Pal-Awda, a group with alleged ties to organizations supporting Hamas, quickly spiraled into violence, prompting a strong police response and widespread condemnation from political leaders.
The protest, which lasted from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., saw demonstrators waving Palestinian flags and chanting anti-Zionist slogans. As tensions escalated, physical altercations broke out between protesters and counter-protesters, leading to at least one arrest. A 42-year-old man was charged with assault for allegedly punching a 61-year-old man. Adding to the alarming situation, police reported finding a large knife at the scene, though it was not used in any attack.
Why are violent pro-Hamas demonstrations even tolerated? Material support for a designated terrorist group is a crime and if done by those lacking permanent residence or citizenship, subject to deportation. https://t.co/cQAFWDTHrV
— NeoUnrealist (@NeoUnrealist) February 19, 2025
Political Backlash and Condemnation
The incident drew swift and strong rebuke from political leaders across the spectrum. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer did not mince words in his condemnation of the protesters.
“Mask-wearing protestors chanting anti-Semitic slogans in the middle of the most Orthodox Jewish community in the city is all about provocation and not about free speech. I applaud the NYPD for keeping order and condemn in strongest terms those who used antisemitic language and symbolism at this event.” – Chuck Shumer
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries echoed Schumer’s sentiments, emphasizing the need to protect Jewish communities and combat antisemitism. New York Governor Kathy Hochul also weighed in, expressing gratitude to the NYPD for their efforts in maintaining order during the chaotic event.
— The Terrible Truth Behind the War on Terror (@SlanderedSaint2) January 31, 2025
Broader Context and Concerns
This protest is part of a series of anti-Israel demonstrations that have taken place in the U.S. following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks in Israel. The organizers, Pal-Awda, have been linked to groups like Al-Awda and Samidoun, which have been designated as terrorist organizations by some countries for their support of Hamas.
“It should come as a shock to no one that the pro-Hamas mob targeting Jews and promising to ‘flood’ Boro Park has descended into violence. Violence is not a bug but a feature of the so-called ‘Free Palestine’ movement, which has no desire to free Palestinians from Hamas.” – Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y.
The incident has reignited concerns about rising antisemitism in the United States. Rep. Don Bacon, co-chair of the House antisemitism task force, called for zero tolerance for antisemitism and urged the arrest of violent protesters. The event also highlighted the complex dynamics of political demonstrations in ethnically diverse communities, particularly in the wake of ongoing Middle East conflicts.
As tensions continue to simmer, both local and national leaders are grappling with how to balance free speech rights with the need to protect vulnerable communities from intimidation and violence. The incident in Borough Park serves as a stark reminder of the deep-seated emotions and divisions that continue to shape public discourse around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, even thousands of miles away from the epicenter of the dispute.
Sources:
- Schumer condemns anti-Israel protests and assault of Orthodox Jews in Brooklyn
- Anti-Israel protest in NYC devolves into violence and mayhem | Fox News
- Violence Erupts After Pro-Hamas Protesters Swarm Orthodox Jewish Community
- Brawls break out surrounding pro-Palestinian protest in heavily Jewish neighborhood of Borough Park
