Pro-Israel and anti-Zionist Jews clash at NYC Council hearing on protest 'buffer zones' - Jewish Telegraphic Agency

"The buffer zone proposal has drawn a split response since its introduction in January. Many pro-Israel Jews have lauded it as a way to curb intimidation in a tense climate, while opponents say it would inappropriately clamp down on constitutionally protected speech, including against pro-Israel events."

"The main floor was filled mostly with proponents of the bills, some of whom wore Israeli flags on their clothing and had signs with messages like 'Protect our houses of worship.' The mezzanine, meanwhile, was packed with activists - including from the anti-Zionist groups Jewish Voice for Peace and Shoresh - who had protested on the steps of City Hall before the hearing, many of them clad in keffiyehs and watermelon kippahs demonstrating their solidarity with the Palestinians."

New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin introduced buffer zone legislation in response to pro-Palestinian protests outside synagogues, sparking significant debate. The proposal would establish protected zones around houses of worship and educational institutions. Jewish leaders and constituents supporting the bill attended the hearing, viewing it as necessary protection against intimidation. Opponents, including pro-Palestinian activists and civil liberties advocates, argue the legislation violates constitutionally protected speech rights. The hearing revealed deep divisions, with pro-Israel supporters occupying the main floor and anti-Zionist activists filling the mezzanine. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has not committed to signing the bill, stating he will await legal review of the final version.

Read at Jewish Telegraphic Agency