New York Attorney General Letitia James has announced that a militant pro-Israel group, Betar US, will cease operations in the state after agreeing to dissolve its not-for-profit corporation and face a $50,000 fine for violating state laws.
The settlement comes as a result of an investigation by James' office into allegations of violence, harassment, and intimidation against Arab, Muslim, and Jewish New Yorkers. The group's actions, including urging members to bring weapons such as pepper spray and knives to protests, were deemed unacceptable by the AG.
Betar US was accused of using fear-mongering tactics to silence free expression and target individuals based on their identity. In one incident, a February 18 protest in Brooklyn turned violent, with one person being stabbed, prompting Betar members to celebrate privately.
The group's "embrace of Islamophobia" and harassment of Muslims have been highlighted by the Anti-Defamation League, which has added Betar to its list of extremist groups. The AG's inquiry found that the group's actions violated the New York Civil Rights Law, resulting in bias-motivated harassment and violence.
Betar US has been criticized for pushing back against allegations of extremism, calling the charge "not only false but deeply antisemitic." However, the group's own history raises concerns about its past involvement in violent disturbances and bombings in Palestinian territories.
The settlement marks a significant victory for James' office, which said it would not tolerate organizations that use fear and intimidation to silence free expression or target individuals based on their identity.
The settlement comes as a result of an investigation by James' office into allegations of violence, harassment, and intimidation against Arab, Muslim, and Jewish New Yorkers. The group's actions, including urging members to bring weapons such as pepper spray and knives to protests, were deemed unacceptable by the AG.
Betar US was accused of using fear-mongering tactics to silence free expression and target individuals based on their identity. In one incident, a February 18 protest in Brooklyn turned violent, with one person being stabbed, prompting Betar members to celebrate privately.
The group's "embrace of Islamophobia" and harassment of Muslims have been highlighted by the Anti-Defamation League, which has added Betar to its list of extremist groups. The AG's inquiry found that the group's actions violated the New York Civil Rights Law, resulting in bias-motivated harassment and violence.
Betar US has been criticized for pushing back against allegations of extremism, calling the charge "not only false but deeply antisemitic." However, the group's own history raises concerns about its past involvement in violent disturbances and bombings in Palestinian territories.
The settlement marks a significant victory for James' office, which said it would not tolerate organizations that use fear and intimidation to silence free expression or target individuals based on their identity.
. The fact that Betar US has agreed to dissolve its corporation and face a fine shows that the state isn't afraid to take action against groups that spread hate and violence. I mean, can you imagine if they had gotten away with this? It's not just about Betar US, it's about setting a precedent for other groups that might try to use fear-mongering tactics to silence people. The AG's office is really showing that they're committed to protecting the rights of all New Yorkers, regardless of their identity or background.
. It's crazy to think about how far this group went in using violence and harassment to silence people and push an agenda. I mean, pepper spray and knives at protests? That's just not okay 
. And the fact that they tried to spin it as "not antisemitic" but still got called out by the ADL is a big deal 
. The AG's office did the right thing in stepping in and holding them accountable, especially considering the harm they caused to people of all backgrounds 
.
... I mean, who wants some militant pro-Israel group intimidating people just because of their identity? It's not cool, fam 
. I'm happy the AG's office stood firm against them and now they have to pay a fine... but, like, 50 grand ain't gonna teach 'em a lesson, you feel? 
. We need more leaders like AG James who are willing to stand up against hate groups and protect our civil rights. This settlement is just the beginning – we'll keep pushing for justice and equality for all! 
It's about time someone held them accountable for using fear-mongering tactics to silence people and spread hate. I mean, who thought it was cool to have people carrying knives and pepper spray to protests? 
Let's hope this sets a precedent for other groups to behave themselves! 