Thousands of Orthodox Jews Protest Military Conscription in NYC

A significant demonstration took place in Midtown Manhattan on the evening of October 29, 2023, as thousands of Orthodox Jewish protesters gathered to express their opposition to forced military conscription in Israel. The protest, organized by the Central Rabbinical Congress and supported by Satmar and Grand Rebbes, drew upwards of ten thousand participants, including men, women, children, and seniors.

The protest began in the afternoon, with demonstrators rallying near the Israeli consulate at 800 2nd Avenue. As the crowd grew, tensions escalated, leading to confrontations with the New York Police Department (NYPD). Officers struggled to maintain order as demonstrators spilled into the roadways, causing significant traffic disruptions. Officers were seen wrestling with metal barricades and attempting to push the crowd back onto the sidewalks.

Rabbi Issac Green addressed the crowd, highlighting the perceived mistreatment of Orthodox Jews by the Israeli government. He stated, “Americans are unaware of Israel’s horrific treatment of Orthodox Jews. From night raids in Orthodox neighborhoods to checkpoints to arrests of Yeshiva students, Israel is persecuting the very religious people that it claims to protect.” He emphasized that Orthodox Jews should not be coerced into serving in a military that conflicts with their religious beliefs.

As the evening progressed, the situation became increasingly chaotic. Many protesters ignored police commands to remain on the sidewalks, leading to further clashes. NYPD officers used megaphones to direct the crowd, with one officer shouting, “Get back on the sidewalk, now!” Despite their efforts, some officers found themselves caught in the surge of demonstrators.

Despite the tense atmosphere, police sources reported that no arrests were made during the demonstration. Officers utilized metal barricades and tape in attempts to manage the crowd, but demonstrators continued to push through, resulting in shoving matches between police and protesters.

The protest aimed to draw attention to broader issues concerning the treatment of Orthodox communities in Israel and the implications of mandatory military service. Participants voiced a strong desire for recognition and respect for their religious practices and beliefs, advocating for a peaceful resolution to their grievances.

As the night wore on and the crowd continued to grow, many demonstrators found themselves standing on trash cans and bike racks to gain a better view and make their voices heard. The event highlighted a significant intersection of religious identity and political sentiment, illustrating the ongoing complexities faced by Orthodox Jews both in Israel and abroad.