Far-right Israeli Minister Faces Widespread Protests Across U.S.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s visit to the United States has sparked widespread protests and controversy, reflecting deep divisions over his far-right positions. His appearances in New Haven, Connecticut, and New York City were met with large groups of pro-Palestinian demonstrators, some of whom threw objects and chanted slogans opposing his policies, though Ben-Gvir was unharmed. The protests extended to his visit at the Chabad-Lubavitch headquarters in Brooklyn, where clashes between activists and counter-demonstrators resulted in several arrests and highlighted tensions within the Jewish community. Some Jewish organizations and individuals distanced themselves from Ben-Gvir’s visit, with resignations reported at a Yale-affiliated society following his appearance and a synagogue in Woodmere canceling a planned event due to community pressure. Observers note that the minister’s tour has exposed significant fissures within American Judaism regarding Israeli politics. Authorities responded to the heightened tensions by increasing police presence at event sites.