URGENT UPDATE: A massive protest erupted in Midtown Manhattan on October 29, 2023, as thousands of Orthodox Jewish demonstrators clashed with police over forced military conscription in Israel. The demonstration, organized by the Central Rabbinical Congress, drew upwards of 10,000 participants, leading to chaotic scenes near the Israeli consulate at 800 2nd Ave.
The protest began earlier in the afternoon, escalating into a confrontation as demonstrators attempted to flood into the streets, disrupting traffic and overwhelming police efforts to maintain order. Officers were seen struggling with metal barricades, attempting to corral the crowd back onto the sidewalks as vehicles crawled past.
“Americans are unaware of Israel’s horrific treatment of Orthodox Jews,” stated Rabbi Issac Green. He condemned the Israeli government for what he described as persecution, stating, “Israel should not force Orthodox Jews to join an anti-religious army to fight wars against their religion.” This rally aimed to raise awareness about the alleged mistreatment of Orthodox communities in Israel.
As the evening progressed, the crowd swelled, with many participants standing on trash cans and Citibike racks to gain visibility. The situation escalated further as protesters began darting in and out of traffic, prompting officers to issue urgent commands through megaphones. Yet, these calls went largely unheeded, resulting in shoving matches between police and demonstrators.
Despite the tense atmosphere and several physical confrontations, police sources report that no arrests were made during the protest. Authorities employed barricades and tape in an attempt to manage the situation, but the sheer number of protesters led to sporadic clashes, with some officers reportedly trapped among the crowd.
This urgent gathering reflects the deep-seated frustrations within the Orthodox Jewish community regarding military service and perceived injustices. The protests are a significant moment in New York City’s ongoing discourse about religious rights and governmental policies.
As night fell, the situation remained fluid, with more protesters joining the rally. Observers are urged to stay tuned for developments as the police and demonstrators continue to navigate this escalating situation.
