Jerusalem, no coffee on Shabbat: establishment to close after months of struggle with ultra-Orthodox Jews

The BaSimtá café in West Jerusalem will cease operations on Saturdays following a sustained period of pressure from ultra-Orthodox residents. The establishment, whose name translates to 'In the Alley,' had attempted to remain open during the Jewish sabbath for nearly two months before deciding to close on that day starting this week.

The closure marks the conclusion of a local conflict regarding the observance of religious customs in the city. The decision reflects the ongoing tension between secular business practices and the expectations of ultra-Orthodox communities concerning sabbath regulations in Jerusalem.