The Trump Justice Department sued anti-Jewish protesters Monday in a civil lawsuit, accusing them of violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act.

The federal law makes it unlawful to use force or intimidate anyone outside abortion facilities or places of worship, interfering with First Amendment rights.

According to the 21-page complaint, the Justice Department alleges that on Nov. 13, 2024, the Party for Socialism and Liberation New Jersey, American Muslims for Palestine New Jersey and seven activists assaulted members of the synagogue Congregation Ohr Torah in West Orange, New Jersey, and harassed Jewish members.

The groups originally planned to protest outside the home of Dr. Mosh Glick, a health care professional who holds prayers and studies in a room inside his personal residence, who led the November event, but when threats were made, the gathering was relocated to the synagogue.

The lawsuit claims the protesters ignored police warnings and attacked an elderly Jewish man during the protest.

“No American should be harassed, targeted, or discriminated against for peacefully practicing their religion,” said Attorney General Pam Bondi. “Today’s lawsuit underscores this Department of Justice’s commitment to defending Jewish Americans — and all Americans of faith — from those who would threaten their right to worship.”

“This Justice Department will vigorously enforce the right of every American to worship in peace and without fear,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Those who target houses of worship and violate our federal laws protecting people of faith are on notice that they will face the consequences.”

The lawsuit asks the court to impose more than $80,000 in penalties on the defendants.

Spokespeople from the Party for Socialism and Liberation New Jersey and American Muslims for Palestine New Jersey did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The groups promote anti-capitalism and pro-Muslim messages, like protesting Israeli settlements.


The incident took place during a time when anti-Jewish and pro-Gaza protests erupted across the nation and liberal activists assaulted Jewish people, citing concerns over alleged human rights violations in Gaza.

• Alex Swoyer can be reached at aswoyer@washingtontimes.com.