Protests Erupt Outside New York Synagogue
On Wednesday, around 200 anti-Israel protesters gathered outside a notable synagogue in New York City, echoing tactics reminiscent of past intifadas. They chanted slogans like “Globalize the Intifada,” which many view as inciting violence against Jewish people and Israelis.
A local publication noted that this phrase is linked to a rise in anti-Semitic incidents, particularly since 2023, and is categorized as hate speech. It gained traction during the Israeli-Hamas conflict in 2023, becoming part of a broader anti-Israel phrase: “From the River to the Sea,” often heard at various protests.
Supporters of the Palestinian cause argue that this phrase is just “metaphorical” and empowering, though critics see it as tied to more violent undertones.
While the demonstration unfolded, an event organized by Nefesh B’Nefesh, a group that facilitates American Jewish immigration to Israel, was taking place inside the synagogue.
One protester shared, “It’s our duty to make them think twice before holding these events. We need to scare them. We need to scare them. We need to scare them.”
Video clips captured protesters chanting, “Resist, we are proud. Get rid of the settlers again,” and “From New York to Gaza, let’s globalize the intifada!” in a rhythmic manner.
Park East Synagogue’s cantor, Benny Rogosnitsky, commented on the situation the following day, describing it as “very disturbing.” He emphasized that while protests are a fundamental right, the hateful language used was deeply troubling.
“What happened last night was alarming because the pro-Palestinian groups were chanting ‘Kill the Jews,’ ‘Destroy Israel,’ and ‘Eliminate the Jews from America.’ Those aren’t words anyone wants to hear at a protest from any side,” he stated, adding that community members had expressed great concern about the protests.
In response, Jewish counter-protesters arrived shortly after, directing shouts of “cowards” at the anti-Israel demonstrators.
The New York City Police Department intervened, creating a barrier between the two groups. Fortunately, there were no reported arrests or injuries.
Rabbi Rogosnitsky expressed his appreciation for the police’s robust presence, feeling reassured by their readiness to respond swiftly, especially with the anticipated arrival of Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani in January.
“We hope the incoming mayor will perpetuate a policy of supporting the NYPD while also allowing peaceful protests. It’s crucial that protests don’t create an atmosphere where people feel attacked or threatened,” he remarked.
Mamdani, whose Islamic faith and progressive views on policing have drawn scrutiny, has previously advocated for police budget cuts and a reduction in police presence overall. Following George Floyd’s death in 2020, he proposed reallocating certain police responsibilities to social workers, an initiative that has not been particularly successful in New York.
As he prepares to become New York’s first Muslim mayor, his reluctance to outright condemn the “globalizing the intifada” slogan raises concerns within a city housing the largest Jewish population outside of Israel.
Community members expressed strong condemnation of the scenes outside the synagogue, with the ADL categorizing it as a “blatant display of anti-Semitism.”
“No one should face such hatred while visiting a house of worship or simply walking the streets of New York City,” the ADL stated.
Current Mayor Eric Adams also commented, echoing the need for concern regarding such protests and the accompanying hateful rhetoric.
“Desecrating one house of worship is tantamount to desecrating all houses of worship. I plan to visit Park East Synagogue to express my support for the Jewish community,” he stated.
