Second Shabbat Brings New Clashes at Jerusalem Cafe Basimta

Haredi demonstrators returned to Cafe Basimta on Agripas Street in Jerusalem on July 11, the second Shabbat in a row, to protest the recently opened cafe's decision to operate on Shabbat. Supporters of the business, including local residents and Hitorerut activists, gathered outside as the sides exchanged chants, with protesters shouting "Shabbos" and cafe patrons answering "enlist." Police were deployed from the morning, intervened to reduce friction and moved protesters who sat near the entrance. Deputy Mayor Adir Schwartz said activists stood by the business and opposed intimidation over its Shabbat opening, after last week's incident led the owner to file a police complaint.