P
ro-Israel and pro-Palestinian groups clashed in Bergen County on Thursday evening, as tensions flared over a real estate event promoting properties in Israel and the occupied West Bank. The protest took place in a residential area of Bergenfield, where crowds chanted, waved flags, and held signs for their respective causes.

    A pro-Palestinian group marched through the neighborhood, chanting in what some described as a threatening manner. The New Jersey chapter of American Muslims for Palestine had announced plans for the protest on social media, criticizing the real estate event as a means for Israel to advance its "imperialist agenda" and likening it to "ethnic cleansing" of Palestinians.

    The Anti-Defamation League countered that AMP promotes extreme anti-Israel views and has provided a platform for antisemitism. The Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey denounced the protest as "antisemitic and hate-filled," calling on community leaders and law enforcement to protect innocent civilians targeted solely because of their Jewish identity.

    Following the protest, Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio announced that the borough is coordinating a security plan with county agencies and neighboring police departments to ensure resident safety. The mayor emphasized that no permits were issued for the protest, and the borough will not allow disruptions or harm to the community.

    Protesters allegedly threatened and harassed Jewish people with chants of "intifada," prompting comparisons to an outbreak of violence against Israeli soccer team supporters in Amsterdam earlier this week. Jason Shames, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey, expressed concern about the mob mentality displayed during the protest.