NEWARK, NJ — The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ) has expressed relief and approval following the arrest of a man involved in a threatening incident at a pro-Palestinian rally in Teaneck.
The arrest occurred after 71-year-old Ebrahim Yehounatan reportedly used racially charged language and brandished a knife at a female participant during the motor vehicle procession along Teaneck Road on Friday, May 3.
Yehounatan faces charges of bias intimidation, weapon possession for unlawful purposes, and harassment. CAIR-NJ’s Executive Director, Selaedin Maksut, emphasized the importance of taking decisive action against such threats of violence and highlighted the need for greater protections for peaceful protesters.
Maksut also commented on the broader implications of such incidents, noting an increase in violent threats at pro-Palestinian protests, which he attributed to harmful rhetoric from elected officials. He urged New Jersey’s leaders to reconsider their approach to ensure the safety of those exercising their right to peaceful assembly. CAIR continues its work to defend civil rights, foster an understanding of Islam, and empower American Muslims.
