JERUSALEM, Aug 19 (Alliance News): A growing dispute over a cafe operating on the Jewish Sabbath in Jerusalem has highlighted deepening tensions between secular and ultra-Orthodox Israelis ahead of the country’s October 27 elections.
Since June, ultra-Orthodox protesters have gathered weekly outside Cafe Basimta in central Jerusalem, objecting to its opening on Shabbat, when observant Jews traditionally refrain from work and commercial activities. Secular Israelis have staged counter-protests, demanding the freedom to choose how they observe the day.
The dispute has also fuelled wider anger over military service, as ultra-Orthodox Jews remain exempt from compulsory military service while Israeli forces continue fighting in the region. Secular Israelis argue that they are carrying a disproportionate burden.
Twenty-year-old Alma Ronen, who has served in Gaza and southern Lebanon, said she was frustrated that some Israelis were required to serve while others were exempt.
According to the Jewish People Policy Institute, 53% of Jewish Israelis identified as completely or somewhat secular in a study last year. Experts, however, say religious Jews are becoming a larger share of the population.
The issue has gained political significance as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu relies on ultra-Orthodox parties in his governing coalition. Opposition figures, including former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, have made ending military exemptions a key election issue.
The protests ended after several hours, but organisers said they would return the following Saturday, while the cafe has continued to attract growing crowds.