Cafe Basimta, a Jerusalem coffeehouse run by Jews for Jesus, said in October 2026 that it agreed to close on the Sabbath after weeks of protests by ultra-Orthodox Jews. ^[1] The management of Jerusalem's Basimta Cafe decided on September 4, 2026, to remain closed on Saturdays following weeks of protests. ^[2] Eli Birnbaum, Israel head of Jews for Jesus, said in a statement that the decision to close was difficult and painful, stemming from responsibility to customers, faith, and Israeli society. ^[3] Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing government, which relies on ultra-Orthodox parties, supports an exemption for religious students from Israel's mandatory military service. ^[4] Religious observance has become a key political faultline as Israel heads to October 27, 2026 elections, which polls show are tight. ^[5] MK Avigdor Liberman posted on X that drinking coffee on Shabbat is forbidden while attacking and rioting on Shabbat is permitted, calling the situation a threat to the State of Israel. ^[6] Protests began on July 4, 2026, when dozens of ultra-Orthodox demonstrators, including minors, surrounded the cafe, banged on windows, and overturned tables. ^[7] Yair Golan, chair of The Democrats party, described the cafe's closure as a result of 'haredi terror' and violence. ^[8]