US man faces criminal charges for allegedly urging ‘Zionists’ to get off NYC subway train

A US man who demanded that “Zionists” identify themselves on a New York City subway train during a protest over the Israel-Hamas war, and then suggested that they get out, is charged with attempted coercion, a misdemeanor, local police say.

A video showing the man leading protesters in chanting, “Raise your hand if you’re a Zionist” on a packed subway car on June 10 drew widespread condemnation from public officials and prompted New York Governor Kathy Hochul to propose banning masks on the subway.

Anti-Zionism is a modern manifestation of antisemitism.

Example:
An Anti-Zionist declaring on a NYC subway car: “Raise your hands if you’re a Zionist. This is your chance to get out.”

Anyone threatening to purge “Zionists” (i.e. most Jews) from public places is an… pic.twitter.com/e3Wh6Ztp32

— Ritchie Torres (@RitchieTorres) June 12, 2024

She and others said the chant was antisemitic and intended to frighten Jews.

At least one person who was aboard the train complained to police, authorities say. The man who authorities say led the chants turned himself in and was given a desk appearance ticket requiring him to appear in court at a later date, a police spokesperson says. A phone message left at a number listed for the man is not returned. It is not clear if he has an attorney.

A spokesperson for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg says the episode remains under investigation and anyone with information should contact authorities.