On March 24, approximately 300 community members gathered in front of Congregation Keter Torah to counter a pro-Palestinian demonstration opposing an Israeli real estate event. The small group of protesters, decrying what they called “stolen Palestinian land sales,” was vastly outnumbered and, after just one hour, dispersed.
The counterprotest was filled with energy and unity, as chants like “Who loves Israel?” and cheers for the Teaneck police were met with enthusiastic applause. Israeli music filled the air while large American and Israeli flags waved proudly overhead.
The Teaneck Police Department reported that one arrest was made during the demonstration. According to the police report, a pro-Palestinian protestor spat on a passing car after the driver honked in support of the pro-Israel counterprotest. The protester, Zachary Riccardo of Little Neck, NY, was immediately arrested on one count of simple assault (a disorderly person offense) and one count of bias intimidation (a fourth degree crime).
