Buffer Zone Debates Spark Controversy After Anti-Israel Protest Near Synagogue

By Michael Johnson
Friday, December 5, 2024

New York Governor Kathy Hochul faces potential conflict with the city’s incoming mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani over a proposed buffer zone law around houses of worship. The measure stems from an incident last month where anti-Israel demonstrators gathered near the Park East Synagogue in Manhattan to protest an event hosted by Nefesh B’Nefesh, an organization that facilitates Jewish immigration to Israel.

The protesters, identifiable by symbols like keffiyehs and Palestinian flags, chanted slogans including “Death to the IDF” and called for a global uprising. The term “intifada” used in their slogan refers specifically to past armed campaigns against Jewish civilians.

State Assembly Member Micah Lasher and State Senator Sam Sutton have introduced legislation that would ban demonstrations within 25 feet of houses of worship and abortion clinics. This comes after the synagogue incident, where a source from Hochul’s office confirmed she plans to consider such buffer zones as part of her legislative agenda once lawmakers return.

Mayor-elect Mamdani issued strong statements following the protest, emphasizing the need for freedom of access to religious sites but also criticizing Nefesh B’Nefesh. His spokesperson Dora Pekec noted that demonstrators used inappropriate language and that sacred spaces should not be exploited for activities violating international law—though a separate statement clarified these comments tied specifically to the organization’s pro-Israel stance on the West Bank.

A group representative stated Nefesh B’Nefesh provides lawful immigration support, while Lasher welcomed Governor Hochul’s backing of common-sense legislation. However, the governor distanced herself from Mamdani’s inflammatory framing, saying she “did not agree with that assessment” regarding illegal activity claims against the hosting organization.

This legislative push aims to protect sensitive locations but raises concerns about civil liberties and the targeting of Jewish community centers amid heightened regional tensions.