New Jersey Officer Sparks Debate Wearing Palestinian Flag on Uniform

Officer Adeeb Iqnies of the Paterson Police Department has come under scrutiny for wearing a Palestinian flag patch on his uniform during a community event, which has sparked debates about cultural representation versus appropriateness for law enforcement. Iqnies, who identifies as Palestinian and has served on the force for three years, stated that his intention was to honor his heritage and represent the city's significant Arab population. The incident has drawn criticism, particularly amid rising antisemitism, with some arguing that the patch could be seen as intimidating. However, Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh defended the practice, noting that officers are allowed to wear flags for special events with approval. The situation reflects the diverse ethnic makeup of Paterson, which is home to a large Muslim community and is often referred to as “Little Palestine.” As the debate continues, questions remain about the department's uniform policy and the implications of displaying foreign flags in a law enforcement context.