On Thursday, over 100 people were detained by New York police during a protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to the United Nations General Assembly. The protest, organised by Jewish Voice for Peace, saw demonstrators holding banners that read "Stop Arming Israel" and "End the Genocide". The New York Post reported that movie star Susan Sarandon and Hacks actress Hannah Einbinder were among those arrested.
According to the NYPD, officers responded to reports of an "unscheduled demonstration" where people were blocking an intersection. Members of the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau issued warnings, advising participants to leave, but multiple individuals who didn't comply were taken into custody. Jewish Voice for Peace said on social media that over 100 people had been arrested during a mass sit-in outside the UN, demanding an end to the genocide in Gaza and an end to US military funding to Israel.
The protest took place as Netanyahu was readying to address the United Nations General Assembly. Inside the General Assembly, dozens of envoys from across the world walked out as Netanyahu began his speech, in which he assailed both enemies and allies that have crossed him in recent months, including Britain and France, which have recently moved to recognise the state of Palestine.
Susan Sarandon, whose movie hits include The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Dead Man Walking, and The Witches of Eastwick, is no stranger to protests over Israel's war in Gaza. The US actress told journalists at the Venice Film Festival this month that she was losing work because of her outspoken views on the issue.
Sarandon stated that she has had movies taken away recently because some agencies are telling people not to hire her due to her stance on Israel. However, she added that she has found her "family" and "people" and is okay. Her comments highlight the challenges faced by celebrities who speak out on contentious issues.
Hannah Einbinder, who won an Emmy, used her acceptance speech to advocate for the Free Palestine movement, shedding light on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Her win and speech underscore the intersection of entertainment and activism.
The incident highlights the ongoing controversy surrounding Netanyahu's visit to the United Nations and the strong emotions it evokes among various groups. The protests and walkouts demonstrate the global debate on Israel's actions in Gaza and the role of the international community.
Key points
- - Over 100 people, including Hollywood stars Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder, were arrested during a protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to the United Nations General Assembly. - The protest, organised by Jewish Voice for Peace, demanded an end to the genocide in Gaza and an end to US military funding to Israel. - The incident highlights the ongoing controversy surrounding Netanyahu's visit to the United Nations and the strong emotions it evokes among various groups.
