Violence Erupts at Pro-Hamas Demonstration in Orthodox Jewish Neighborhood of New York City

Violence erupted in Borough Park, Brooklyn, as anti-Israel protesters clashed with Orthodox Jewish residents, leaving the community shaken and leaders condemning the incident.

Key Insights

Anti-Israel protest in Borough Park, Brooklyn, a predominantly Orthodox Jewish neighborhood, turned violent.
The protest was organized by Pal-Awda, a group with alleged ties to terrorist organizations.
One arrest was made after a 42-year-old man allegedly assaulted a 61-year-old during the chaos.
Political leaders, including Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, strongly condemned the protest and its antisemitic rhetoric.
The incident highlights growing tensions and concerns about antisemitism in the United States.

Protest Turns Violent in Jewish Neighborhood

On Tuesday evening, an anti-Israel protest in Borough Park, Brooklyn, a neighborhood known for its large Orthodox Jewish population, descended into chaos and violence. The demonstration, organized by the New York chapter of Pal-Awda, began around 5:30 p.m. and lasted until 9 p.m., drawing a heavy police presence. What started as a protest against alleged sales of Palestinian land quickly escalated into violent clashes between demonstrators, local residents, and pro-Israel counter-protesters.

Protesters, many wearing masks, chanted anti-Zionist slogans and waved Palestinian flags. The situation intensified when they encountered Jewish residents and counter-protesters. Reports indicate that several physical altercations broke out, and attempts were made to vandalize police vehicles. In one incident, a 42-year-old man was arrested and charged with assault for allegedly punching a 61-year-old man. Law enforcement also reported finding a large knife on the ground, 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 Leaders Condemn Antisemitic Rhetoric

The incident drew swift condemnation from political leaders across the spectrum. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer strongly criticized the protesters, stating, “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.”

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries echoed these 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 volatile situation.

https://t.co/g76xCeLs0W

— The Terrible Truth Behind the War on Terror (@SlanderedSaint2) January 31, 2025

Concerns Over Rising Antisemitism

The protest in Borough Park is part of a series of anti-Israel demonstrations that have taken place in the United States following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks in Israel. These events have raised concerns about rising antisemitism and the safety of Jewish communities across the nation. Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., criticized the protesters, linking them to pro-Hamas sentiments and violence. He stated, “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.”

The incident has reignited discussions about the need for increased protection of Jewish communities and stronger measures to combat antisemitism. Rep. Don Bacon, co-chair of the House antisemitism task force, called for zero tolerance for antisemitism and expressed hope for the arrest of violent protesters. These events serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions and the importance of addressing hate and intolerance in our communities.