Opposing protests held in Bensonhurst following possible antisemitic attack in Bay Ridge

Two opposing protests rocked through Bensonhurst Sunday as police investigate a potentially antisemitic attack in Bay Ridge.

News 12 Staff

Jan 2, 2022, 11:02 PM

Updated 1,010 days ago

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Two opposing protests rocked through Bensonhurst Sunday as police investigate a potentially antisemitic attack in Bay Ridge.
Blake Zavadsky, 21, and his friend say they were attacked outside of a store. Police say a stranger approached the two, made antisemitic statements and punched Zavadsky in the face multiple times.
Zavadsky says he was attacked for wearing an Israel Defense Forces sweatshirt.
Many at the rally, organized by Councilmember Inna Vernikov, expressed their outrage at the incident and called it a disturbing act of antisemitic violence.
Across the street, though, members of an anti-Zionist and ultra-orthodox group, Neturei Karta, held a counter protest accusing Zavadsky of provocation by wearing the sweatshirt.
Police say no arrests have been made in connection to the assault, which is being investigated by the Hate Crimes Task Force. Anyone with information is asked to call 1-800-577-TIPS.