NYPD Investigates Violent Clashes During Pro-Israel, Anti-Israel Protests in Brooklyn

New York City experienced a series of clashes between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel protesters, particularly surrounding the visit of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to Brooklyn. Tensions escalated outside the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters and other synagogues, with confrontations leading to injuries, allegations of harassment, and several arrests. Mayor Eric Adams announced an NYPD investigation into reports that female anti-Israel protesters were harassed and assaulted by counter-protesters, and condemned the violence and hate speech that occurred. The protests provoked widespread outrage in the Jewish community and raised concerns among civil rights advocates about rising incidents of both antisemitism and Islamophobia in the city. Police continue to seek additional information and have urged those involved to come forward as investigations proceed. Authorities and community leaders have emphasized that while peaceful protest is protected, violence and hate will not be tolerated in New York City.