Philadelphia Restaurant Targeted in Anti-Semitic Protest

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
04/12/2023 20h35

In a disturbing incident that unfolded in Philadelphia on Sunday, a Jewish-owned restaurant became the target of an anti-Semitic protest, sparking outrage and condemnation from political figures and community leaders. The protest, which quickly turned into a mob-like scene, has raised concerns about rising hate and bigotry in the city.

The incident occurred at Goldie, a popular eatery known for serving Israeli cuisine. The protestors accused the restaurant of appropriating Palestinian culture by advertising its food as Israeli. The demonstration, captured on video, featured individuals expressing their anger and frustration towards the establishment.

"They advertise their food as Israeli. They serve falafel, hummus, you name it, as Israeli food," one protester can be heard saying in the video. "It's not enough for them to steal our land. It's not enough for them to kill our people. They're stealing our ethnic food as well. Shame on them! Shame!"

The video quickly gained attention after it was shared by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, himself Jewish, who denounced the incident as a blatant act of anti-Semitism. "Tonight in Philly, we saw a blatant act of anti-Semitism - not a peaceful protest," Governor Shapiro wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "A restaurant was targeted and mobbed because its owner is Jewish and Israeli. This hate and bigotry is reminiscent of a dark time in history."

Senator John Fetterman also expressed his outrage, highlighting the misplaced focus of the protesters. "They could be protesting Hamas. They could be protesting Hamas' systematic rape of Israeli women and girls or demanding the remaining hostages be immediately released," Fetterman wrote on X. "Instead, they targeted a Jewish restaurant. It's pathetic and rank anti-Semitism."

Following the incident, restaurant owner Solomonov received support from Governor Shapiro, assuring him of his backing in the face of such hatred. The White House spokesperson, Andrew Bates, also joined the chorus of condemnation, stating that targeting restaurants serving Israeli food over disagreements with Israeli policy is anti-Semitic and unjustifiable. Bates emphasized that President Biden has been a staunch opponent of anti-Semitism throughout his life.

In addition to the attack on Goldie, several businesses were vandalized in the area, including a TD Bank, a Starbucks, and a police vehicle. Police are still investigating whether the vandalism incidents are connected to the protest at the restaurant.

The incident adds to the tension seen during recent rallies across the United States amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Accusations of genocide against Palestinians have been met with criticism from organizations like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), who have clarified that the use of the term "genocide" in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is inaccurate and misleading.

Law enforcement is currently reviewing surveillance footage to identify the individuals involved in the protest and vandalism. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department's tipline at 215-686-TIPS (8477).

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued efforts to combat anti-Semitism and to promote understanding and respect among different communities within society.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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