Jewish-owned Philadelphia restaurant targeted by antisemitic protestors, Pa. governor says
PHILADELPHIA (TND) — Pro-Palestine protesters recited antisemitic chants outside of an Israeli-owned Philadelphia falafel restaurant Sunday night.
The Philadelphia Free Palestine Coalition shouted the remarks in front of Goldie in Rittenhouse Square. Demonstrators yelled, "Goldie, Goldie, you can't hide. We charge you with genocide" while waving flags and blocking traffic.
The protestors also called for Israel's termination and to "free Gaza" while applying "Free Palestine" stickers to the establishment's windows.
After marching through Rittenhouse Square, the coalition continued to University City, telling Eagles fans in Center City bars, "While you're watching, bombs are dropping," according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Goldie's owner, Mike Solomonov, operates several Israeli restaurants in the city, including Laser Wolf, Zahav and K'Far Café.
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Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro called out the protesters' hateful nature following the incident.
"Tonight in Philly, we saw a blatant act of antisemitism — not a peaceful protest," Shapiro said. "A restaurant was targeted and mobbed because its owner is Jewish and Israeli. This hate and bigotry is reminiscent of a dark time in history."
The governor spoke with Solomonov and his staff after the protest, adding he looks forward to "breaking bread there with them again soon."
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney confirmed in a statement to The National Desk Monday that the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations is reviewing the incident.
"Our administration will follow up with the restaurant to address any safety concerns," the mayor added.
Rep. Brendan Boyle. D-P.a., also shared his disgust for the actions.
"I can’t believe I even have to say this but targeting businesses simply because they’re Jewish owned is despicable," Boyle wrote. "Philadelphia stands against this sort of harassment and hate."
Democratic State Rep. Ben Waxman echoed Boyle's remarks, claiming the harassment of Jewish business owners is "unacceptable."
"Protestors should leave these establishments alone and focus on government officials who actually have power to influence the situation in Israel and Gaza," Waxman suggested.
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The Philadelphia Free Palestine Coalition plans to bus supporters to Harrisburg next week to call for a ceasefire, according to the Inquirer. Less than an hour before the end of last week's pause, Hamas fired missiles toward Israel, according to the Jewish state. Israel promptly returned fire and approximately 180 people died in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seeks to eliminate Hamas rulers before another truce.
"When I send you and your friends into battle I think of two things: how this mission will serve the goals of the war, and how we can do everything to protect you," Natanyahu told Israel Defense Forces recruits yesterday. "We are going to wipe out Hamas."
The leader stated on Friday Israel will continue the war until it accomplishes three goals.
"We continue to fight with all our strength until we achieve all our goals: the return of all our abductees, the elimination of Hamas, and the promise that Gaza will never be a threat to Israel again," Netanyahu claimed.
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