JERUSALEM — Ultra-Orthodox protesters demonstrated outside Cafe Basimta in Jerusalem on Saturday, July 4, 2026, after the owner announced the cafe would remain open on Saturdays. Dozens of protesters surrounded the establishment, leading to a counter-show of public support from Jerusalem residents and a police response.

During the demonstration, protesters banged on the windows of the cafe. They also cursed at customers and spat toward them. Cafe owner Yoel Ben David stated on July 5, 2026, that the business would remain open on Saturdays.

Ben David said he did not anticipate such a strong reaction to his decision. "There were no early signs before Saturday," he said. "There were people who told me I was very brave for deciding to open on Saturday, but I did not think there would be a reaction like this." He noted receiving messages and phone calls from residents on the morning of July 4.

"Suddenly they arrived, and it was disturbing and quite sad to see small children being sent to bang on windows and overturn tables," Ben David said. He added, "I tried to speak with the protesters, but there was no one to speak to. I was afraid it would develop into an incident of violence, either by them or that one of the customers would get worked up and respond." Police forces arrived at the area after most of the protesters had dispersed.

Cafe Basimta is located in the Nahlaot neighborhood of Jerusalem, in an alley adjacent to Agrippas Street. The cafe opened at the end of May 2026. Ben David said he felt encouraged by the community support his business received, stating, "I feel very encouraged; there is a large community here that supports us." He also mentioned, "This is not the first time I have experienced intimidation and threats."