Bookstore Powerhouse Arena said Thursday it had fired and apologized to an employee who refused to participate in a book launch event because of anti-Israel bias.

A statement posted on social media said the employee “abused his position at Powerhouse and brought his personal biases and preconceived ideas where they were not needed, wanted or allowed.”

Our statement regarding Tuesday night's incident. pic.twitter.com/gvZ79lTPL9

— Powerhouse Arena (@POWERHOUSEArena) August 22, 2024

Employees informed veteran author Joshua Leifer and the event's host, Rabbi Andy Bachman, that the event had been abruptly canceled just hours before the release of Leifer's new book on Tuesday.

“We don't want Zionists on our stage,” the employee allegedly told Leifer as he and his wife tried to resolve the issue, after which the employee allegedly threatened to call security on Leifer and his wife. (Related article: Seattle Museum and Jewish group agree to remove 'anti-Semitic' exhibit after staff walk out of work)

Powerhouse Arena said its staff member's actions were a “case study in the shocking re-emergence of anti-Semitism”. [sic] Hostility continues to rear its head in the spaces and communities where we all least expected it.”

The bookstore claims the employee was due to resign next week but her actions have forced her to do so sooner, and that her actions are in direct conflict with the company's cherished values ​​of open discussion and opposition to intolerance.

“Please understand our deep disappointment at what has happened and we sincerely apologize for any harm it has caused,” Powerhouse Arena wrote.

Several Jewish groups responded favorably to the bookseller's apology. The Anti-Defamation League of New York and New Jersey said:[d].”

We are astounded @Powerhouse Arena cancel Joshua ReiferThe launch of their book was canceled because they would not allow “Zionists” into the conversation. It is anti-Semitic and wrong to block Jews from entering public spaces because they believe in their right to self-determination. We… https://t.co/bNddsjw2sp

— ADL New York/New Jersey (@ADL_NYNJ) August 22, 2024

“Powerful and thoughtful words. We applaud you for your comments. You did not choose this situation, but by allowing yourself to be in it, you send a clear message that you are committed to dialogue and tolerance,” Campaign to Combat Anti-Semitism wrote.

These are strong and thoughtful words. I commend you for saying this. You did not choose this situation, but by finding yourself here, you have sent a clear message that you are committed to dialogue and tolerance.

thank you.

—Combat ASemitism (@CombatASemitism) August 22, 2024

A launch event for Leifer's book has been rescheduled to take place on Monday at the New Jewish Cultural Center in Brooklyn. Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA) Reported.

Brooklyn book launch canceled due to 'Zionist' host, postponed until next week https://t.co/vkTmInUu5v

— JTA | Jewish News (@JTAnews) August 23, 2024

“We know and respect both Josh and Rabbi Bachman so well that it was a no-brainer for us from a community standpoint,” Rabbi Matt Green, co-founder of the New Jewish Cultural Center, said of why his venue was chosen to host the event, the outlet reported.