What’s happening:
Multiple reports indicate that Gazala’s, a Druze-owned restaurant located in New York City, has suffered repeated vandalism incidents driven by the owner’s public support for Israel.
Why it matters:
The targeting of Gazala’s highlights the larger issue of antisemitism and the bigotry certain pro-Israel businesses face internationally. Acts of vandalism based on political or ethnic sentiments pose a threat to the principles of diversity and freedom of expression.
The Details:
Perpetrators defaced Gazala’s with “Free Palestine” graffiti, notably within the restaurant’s restroom area. This marks the second time such an event has occurred. Gazala Halabi notes that featuring both the Israeli and Druze flags and having Israel marked on the menu’s map has led some to refuse patronage or abruptly leave the restaurant.
Background:
Gazala’s, established in 2007 and possibly the only Druze restaurant in New York, emphasizes traditional Middle Eastern and Druze foods. Halabi’s establishment echoes her personal narrative and expresses her cultural pride through authentic dishes handed down through the generations.
Owner’s Reaction:
Gazala Halabi, originally from Haifa and present in Israel during the recent Hamas mass terror attack that resulted in over 1200 deaths, expressed a mix of outrage and shock. Relating the incidents of vandalism to an affront to personal and community security, she calls for a broader understanding of the impact of terrorism from a global perspective.
About The Restaurant:
The origins of Gazala’s Restaurant are intertwined with Halabi’s journey from Israel to New York. Initially starting with home-catered offerings after her move in 2001, her venture culminated in Gazala’s establishment. As set out on its website, the restaurant focuses on authenticity, recreating the hearty meals reminiscent of her childhood in Israel using ingredients sourced from her native country.
Broader Implication:
This instance of vandalism against Gazala’s underscores the rippling effects the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has on diaspora communities and the global dialogue surrounding the political tension between these groups. Such acts spark questions about the rhetoric of division and tolerance within society.
This story was first published on jpost.com.