The protest, organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, gathered in Midtown Manhattan on Thursday as Netanyahu prepared to address the UN General Assembly. Protesters held banners reading "Stop Arming Israel" and "End the Genocide," while a 30‑year‑old mother of two joined the sit‑in to support Palestinian rights.
In the midst of the demonstration, NYPD officers cuffed actress Susan Sarandon and actress Hannah Einbinder, both known for their outspoken views on Israel's war in Gaza. The footage shows officers moving swiftly to disperse the crowd as Netanyahu's speech began.
Netanyahu’s address at the General Assembly saw dozens of envoys walk out after he criticized Britain and France for recognizing Palestine, calling their accusations of colonialism "some colonialism" while accusing them of inventing the term. The protest, which had been staged in city streets, mirrored the international backlash.
Sarandon, whose films include "Dead Man Walking" and "The Witches of Eastwick," said at the Venice Film Festival that she is losing work because of her outspoken stance on the conflict. "There are agencies telling people not to hire me," she told reporters.
Police have not yet released a formal statement on the detentions, leaving the incident unresolved as the UN session continues and protesters plan to resume their campaign.