Thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Manhattan this week as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in New York City to deliver his speech before the United Nations General Assembly. The demonstrations, among the largest seen in recent months, reflected widespread anger over Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza and the mounting civilian toll.
Protesters Demand an End to the War in Gaza
Crowds gathered near the UN Headquarters and across Times Square, waving Palestinian flags, chanting slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “Ceasefire Now.” Many carried banners calling for international accountability, urging world leaders to impose sanctions on Israel and halt U.S. military support.
Demonstrators included human rights groups, student organizations, Jewish peace activists, and members of the Arab and Muslim communities in New York. Some protesters wore keffiyehs and held signs comparing the destruction in Gaza to historical atrocities, while others called for justice for the thousands of civilians reportedly killed in Israeli airstrikes since October 2024.
Heavy Security and Road Closures
The NYPD deployed additional officers and established barricades around the United Nations complex and nearby hotels hosting diplomatic delegations. Major roads were closed temporarily as security measures intensified during Netanyahu’s arrival and speech. Despite the size of the protests, police said the demonstrations remained largely peaceful, with only minor confrontations reported.
Netanyahu’s Controversial Address
In his speech, Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions in Gaza as “necessary for national security” and accused critics of “double standards.” His remarks were met with outrage outside the UN, where protesters booed and held up placards reading “War Criminal” and “End the Occupation.”
International observers noted that the protests in New York mirrored growing global discontent with Israel’s military campaign and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Voices from the Protest
“We’re here to tell Netanyahu that New York stands with the oppressed, not the oppressor,” said one protester, a university student from Brooklyn. “The world cannot stay silent while Gaza burns.”
Several Jewish organizations also joined the demonstration, carrying banners that read “Not in Our Name.” Their participation highlighted the diverse coalition calling for an end to the violence and greater U.S. pressure on Israel to pursue peace.
