Queens restaurant sparks outrage with anti-Israel sidewalk display

In Queens, a halal restaurant has ignited controversy by placing images of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Biden on its sidewalk, branding them as war criminals. This provocative display has been in place for several months and has drawn significant criticism from local leaders and community members who view it as an incitement to hatred and violence against the Jewish community. Rabbi David Aglaze described the imagery as inappropriate and harmful, emphasizing the need for sensitivity in a diverse community. The restaurant's owner, Fares 'Freddy' Paideia, argues that his display is not targeted solely at Jewish leaders but is part of a broader protest against the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He claims to be an 'equal opportunity' protester, having included images of other leaders, such as Saudi Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who he believes have also been complicit in the conflict. Paideia insists that his actions are not antisemitic and that he supports a two-state solution. Despite the backlash, Paideia remains defiant, stating that he is willing to let city officials remove the images if they choose to do so. The Department of Transportation is currently investigating the matter, reflecting the city's concern over the implications of such displays in public spaces. The incident has sparked a wider discussion about the responsibilities of public figures and businesses in addressing sensitive political issues, as well as the impact of such displays on community relations. Local leaders are calling for a more responsible approach to public discourse to prevent further division and hostility.