Haredi demonstrators, counterprotestors clash at sixth consecutive Shabbat protest of Basimta Cafe

For the sixth consecutive Saturday, haredi demonstrators and counter-protestors clashed outside Jerusalem's Basimta Cafe over its operation on Shabbat. The cafe has become a central point in the ongoing debate about businesses opening on Shabbat in Jerusalem. Several politicians, including Democrats Party chairman Maj.-Gen. (res.) Yair Golan and MK Meirav Cohen, joined the counter-protest in support of the cafe. MK Cohen stated that the owner, Yoel Ben David, was offered money to close on Shabbat but refused, leading to the protests. Ben David expressed his desire for harmony, telling Maariv, "I want them to be able to pray in peace, for us to be able to drink our coffee in peace, and for all of us to be able to live here together in harmony." He also noted receiving support from both secular and religious communities.