Protests Erupt in New York Against Far-Right Israeli Minister Ben Gvir

During the visit of Ben Gvir to the United States, protests erupted across the country wherever he went. One particularly notable instance occurred within the Jewish communities in New York. This controversial far-right minister, was rejected by numerous synagogues across New York. However, when a synagogue in Flatbush decided to give him a platform and planned to host him, outrage spread quickly. A protest was called to denounce his appearance and condemn bringing such a war criminal into a holy space, let alone giving him a platform to speak.

Protesters Unite Against Ben Gvir

On Sunday morning, April 27, 2025, pro-Palestinian protesters and a large group of anti-Zionist Jews gathered outside the Flatbush synagogue to protest against Ben Gvir. The demonstrators demanded that this criminal, be completely rejected.

During the protest, Rabbi Joseph Kohn addressed the protest, expressing the sentiments of many Jewish communities in New York. He stated emphatically that Ben Gvir is not welcome in their community. Rabbi Kohn emphasized the unity of the Jewish people in New York, declaring their strong opposition to Zionism and its violent manifestations under figures like Ben Gvir.

Escalation of Violence and Intimidation

As the protest unfolded, tensions escalated. A significant amount of intimidation and physical attacks were documented against the protesters, including anti-Zionist Jews. The NYPD worked tirelessly to protect the demonstrators from physical harm, but the situation remained volatile.

In a video circulating on social media, Zionists were seen chasing and attempting to attack Orthodox Jews at the protest. Fortunately, these individuals were saved by a pro-Palestinian protester who intervened to shield them.

In another alarming incident, Zionists were filmed throwing heavy cans and bottles from a rooftop toward the peaceful protesters below. The aggression did not stop there. In yet another confrontation, Zionists attempted to block anti-Zionist Jews from leaving the area after the protest. It was only through the intervention of the NYPD that the blockade was lifted, allowing the protesters to leave safely.

Cancellation of Event and Continued Protests

As the protest continued, the NYPD announced that the event at the synagogue had been canceled due to the protests. While it remained unclear whether this statement was accurate, Rabbi Yitzchok Deutsch delivered a message . He reminded everyone that while the event may have been canceled, the larger issues at hand—such as the ongoing genocide and occupation of Palestine—remain unresolved.

“The rebellion against God and the movement of Zionism continues,” Rabbi Deutsch declared. “And so, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protest against Ben Gvir and Zionism, regardless of whether he is inside this synagogue or elsewhere.”