Pro-Terror Protest in Brooklyn Sparks Controversy over NYPD Response
ICARO Media Group
In a weekend rally in Brooklyn, a pro-terror protester proudly waved the flag of Hamas, a recognized terrorist organization, sparking outrage among residents and raising concerns over the NYPD's response in managing the rowdy crowd. The incident took place during the Nakba Day protest held in Bay Ridge on Saturday, where demonstrators gathered to commemorate the start of the Arab-Israeli conflict in 1948.
The rally saw not only the display of the Hamas flag but also that of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, another terrorist organization classified as such by the US State Department. Videos circulating online showed the police making over a dozen arrests, with some officers appearing to use aggressive force against protesters, causing public outcry.
City Councilman Justin Brannan, who represents the area, expressed disappointment in the NYPD's response, stating that previous Nakba Day demonstrations had occurred peacefully without any violence. Brannan questioned the necessity of the aggressive tactics employed by the police, suggesting that a "zero tolerance" directive from police headquarters may have contributed to the escalation.
Ember Ollum, a controversial City Council staffer known for promoting violence against law enforcement during George Floyd protests, raised questions about the police presence during the Nakba Day protest. Ollum speculated whether the same level of force would be used when closing streets for festivals, highlighting the carrying of flags as a supposed threat.
However, Rabbi Joseph Potasnik and City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov criticized the protesters for supporting terrorist organizations while condemning the police. Rabbi Potasnik questioned the perverse value system of those who criticized law enforcement while commending murderers, calling for condemnation of Hamas instead. Councilwoman Vernikov commended the NYPD for their response, labeling it as necessary in the face of individuals proudly waving terrorist flags and threatening officers.
Local residents interviewed by The Post echoed the concerns voiced by the Rabbi and Councilwoman, expressing their disapproval of waving the Hamas flag on American soil. Mary Owens described the act as infuriating, while Dr. Sami Nagar emphasized the controversial nature of Hamas and deemed the display unacceptable.
The video footage that emerged from the rally showed confrontations between police and the protesters, with instances of officers throwing punches at demonstrators who were pinned to the ground. The exact events leading up to these confrontations remain unclear.
The NYPD has been facing numerous anti-Israeli protests in recent months following the Palestinian Hamas terrorist attack on Israel and the subsequent military response. GOP Representative Nicole Malliotakis acknowledged that the majority of the participants in the Brooklyn protest were outside agitators, expressing confidence in the NYPD's efforts to ensure the safety of residents and local businesses.
The NYPD did not provide a comment in response to inquiries about their handling of the situation. The controversial rally has reignited debates over freedom of expression, the appropriate response to violent protests, and the support for recognized terrorist organizations on American soil.
This article has been compiled based on information provided by various sources and interviews.