Thousands of Orthodox Jews Protest Military Conscription in Manhattan

A large-scale protest took place in Midtown Manhattan on the evening of October 29, 2023, as thousands of Orthodox Jewish demonstrators gathered to voice their opposition to forced military conscription in Israel. The demonstration drew upwards of 10,000 participants, who expressed their concerns about the treatment of Orthodox Jews by the Israeli government.

Participants began assembling earlier that afternoon, rallying outside the Israeli consulate located at 800 2nd Avenue. The crowd quickly swelled, leading to confrontations with the New York Police Department (NYPD), who were tasked with managing the situation and ensuring traffic could continue to flow in the area.

As the evening progressed, demonstrators spilled onto the roadways, causing significant disruptions to traffic. Officers struggled to contain the situation, grappling with barricades and attempting to push the crowd back onto the sidewalks. Witnesses reported that some police officers found themselves caught in the midst of the throng, leading to tense moments as demonstrators resisted commands to return to the designated areas.

Rabbi Issac Green, a prominent voice at the protest, highlighted the issues faced by Orthodox communities in Israel. 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 further emphasized that Orthodox Jews should not be compelled to join an army that conflicts with their religious beliefs.

The gathering was organized by the Central Rabbinical Congress and received support from key leaders within the Satmar community and other Grand Rebbes. The event attracted participants of all ages, including children and seniors, who stood on trash cans and bike racks to get a better view of the proceedings.

Despite the disorder, police reported that no arrests were made during the protest. However, the atmosphere remained charged as officers continued to direct the crowd. They utilized metal barricades and tape in an effort to control the flow of demonstrators, but many protesters were undeterred, leading to several confrontations between police and demonstrators.

As tensions escalated, some demonstrators darted into traffic, prompting urgent commands from police to return to the sidewalks. One officer was heard shouting through a megaphone, “Get back on the sidewalk, now!” The crowd’s resistance to police directives contributed to the chaotic environment, with some officers experiencing physical confrontations.

The protest in Midtown Manhattan underscores the growing tensions surrounding military conscription in Israel and the broader concerns regarding the treatment of Orthodox Jews. As the situation unfolded, the voices of the demonstrators resonated, drawing attention to their grievances and the complex dynamics at play within Israeli society.