Update - Zionists Misuse Of Antisemitism At Protest

A recent protest at an Upper East Side Synagogue has once again revealed how Zionist organizations work to inflame tensions within New York’s Jewish community. The protest, which quickly spread across social media, was seized upon by Zionist influencers who attempted to portray it as evidence that “Jews cannot pray safely” and that New York’s elected Mayor is directly responsible for rising hostility against Jews. This narrative circulated rapidly, amassing millions of views while deflecting attention from the actual facts.

The protest was not rooted in antisemitism, nor was it an attack on Judaism. The true source of the controversy was the unprecedented and provocative decision by Nefesh B’Nefesh, Israel’s Aliyah agency, to promote the sale of land in the Holy Land inside a synagogue in New York City.

This move comes amid global outrage over Israel’s conduct in Gaza and during a fragile ceasefire. Predictably, Zionist institutions attempted to sell a story of how Jews are being targeted “just for being Jews,” while the real intention was to stoke tension in a city where a majority of Jews and non-Jews strongly oppose Israel’s actions.

New York’s incoming mayor addressed the issue as well, noting that the land sale could constitute a violation of international law. While our organization does not weigh into  politics, one critical point must be underscored that Jews in New York do not want to be portrayed as assets or extensions of a foreign state. Zionist organizations publicly promoted the sale of land in the Holy Land in the heart of New York City, inaccurately presenting it as a ‘core Jewish value.’ In doing so, they risked fueling harmful misconceptions that can endanger local Jewish communities.

This issue is not about New York, not about New York Jews, and certainly not about Judaism. It is about the actions of a foreign political entity, using the name of Jews to promote its agendas. Our Twitter Page @TorahJews responded directly to several prominent Zionist influencers, challenging their claims that the protest targeted NYC Jews or Judaism. In reply to an article in the Jewish Insider, we stated the simple truth:

“Zionists would be booed out of any synagogue belonging to recognized Hasidic or Litvish congregations. These communities represent the majority of Jews in New York City. Zionists deliberately pretend that opposing Nefesh B’Nefesh is ‘Jew-hatred,’ when in reality these groups would be shooed out head-first if they attempted to operate in our shuls.”

We will continue to counter misinformation and speak out against efforts to conflate Judaism with Zionism. Our commitment is to preserve the integrity of our faith, protect the safety of our community, and defend the future of New York’s Jews from Israel's dangerous manipulation.