– Long-tailed keyword: Rabbi Meir Kahane cousin arrested NYC pro-Palestinian protester
– Long-tailed keyword: Controversial Rabbi Meir Kahane relative arrested NYC pro-Palestinian protester.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
A man identified as a cousin of Rabbi Meir Kahane, the controversial founder of the Jewish Defense League assassinated in a Manhattan hotel, has been arrested for ramming his car into a pro-Palestinian protester on the Upper East Side of New York City. Reuven Kahane, a 57-year-old real estate developer, was taken into custody by police at Park Ave. and E. 72nd St. following a clash with protesters picketing the home of a Barnard College trustee.
Protesters quickly recognized Reuven Kahane as a cousin of Meir Kahane, and this connection has been reported in past media coverage over the years. Kahane and his lawyer declined to discuss the case or his relationship to Meir Kahane during the court proceedings.
Background on Meir Kahane
Meir Kahane was a controversial figure who was barred from Israel’s parliament for his anti-Arab views before being fatally shot in 1990. His assassin, El Sayyid Nosair, was linked to the blind sheikh Omar Abdel Rahman, whose sect was associated with the 9/11 attacks. Nosair was also convicted of involvement in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.
The homes of four Columbia and Barnard College trustees were being picketed when the incident occurred. About 25 pro-Palestinian demonstrators were protesting at Park Ave. and E. 72nd St. when the altercation took place.
Legal Proceedings
During Reuven Kahane’s arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court, the prosecutor stated that the victim suffered back pain, leg pain, and other injuries as a result of being struck by Kahane’s vehicle. Kahane was arraigned on felony assault charges and released without bail. Prosecutors requested supervised release due to the seriousness of the charge.
The victim, identified as Mary Ellen Novak, was charged with criminal mischief for banging on the hood of Kahane’s car. She was treated at a local hospital for her injuries.
Protest Organizer Statements
The protest organizers accused Kahane of purposefully driving into the woman, and they highlighted his connection to Meir Kahane, labeling him as a relative of the late Israeli fascist leader. They stated that followers of Meir Kahane have been responsible for numerous violent attacks against Palestinians.
Media Reports
Past media reports have linked Reuven Kahane to activist activities and identified him as a cousin of the slain rabbi. In a 1990 Los Angeles Times article, Kahane was quoted as saying, “This is the final sacrifice.” He has also been mentioned in other articles over the years.
Conclusion
Reuven Kahane’s lawyer maintains his client’s innocence in this case. The incident has sparked controversy and drawn attention to the ongoing tensions in the region. It serves as a reminder of the complex political and social issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
(New York Daily News journalist Roni Jacobson contributed to this report.)
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“Rabbi Meir Kahane cousin arrested NYC pro-Palestinian protester”.
