Queens Restaurant Sparks Outrage With Images of World Leaders on Sidewalk

A Queens halal restaurant, The King of Falafel and Shawarma, is facing backlash for displaying images of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Biden, and other world leaders on the sidewalk outside its establishment. Customers are required to walk over these images to enter the restaurant, a move that has been condemned as “anti-Semitic and anti-American” by pro-Zionist organization Betar USA.

Betar USA has called on the mayor’s office to remove the images, alleging they constitute “anti-Semitic and anti-American materials” on public property. The images, which have been present for months, also include labels identifying some leaders as “war criminals.”

The restaurant owner, Fares “Freddy” Paideia, insists that the display is not antisemitic and that he is simply protesting what he sees as biased support for Israel. He argues that he is an “equal opportunity” pro-Palestine protester, pointing to the inclusion of Saudi Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas in the sidewalk display, both of whom he believes have been friendly towards Israel.

He claims the display was prompted by his frustration with the conflict in Gaza, particularly the Hamas terrorist attacks that killed 1,200 Israelis and kidnapped 250 more. He maintains that his form of protest is harmless and advocates for a two-state solution.

While Paideia maintains his right to express his views, the display has caused significant controversy. Rabbi David Aglaze of Havurat Yisrael of Forest Hills called the imagery “inappropriate” and an “incitement to hate.” He argues that stepping on people’s faces is a form of violence and division.

The Department of Transportation is currently investigating the matter. Mayor Adams’ spokesperson released a statement condemning all forms of hate speech and discrimination.

Paideia has stated that he will not resist any efforts by city officials to remove the images from the sidewalk, but he plans to keep them displayed inside the restaurant.