Over 100 Arrested in New York Protests Against Netanyahu’s UN Visit

More than 100 people were arrested during protests in New York as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the United Nations General Assembly. Demonstrators gathered near the UN headquarters on September 24, 2026, demanding accountability for Israel’s actions in Gaza and an end to U.S. military support. The protests, led by groups such as Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) and NYC-Democratic Socialists of America, included celebrities, organizers, and politicians.

A protest attendee, who identified only as Jose, told Al Jazeera that Netanyahu’s presence in New York was a “total disrespect.” He described the leader as a “war criminal” and emphasized the community’s intolerance for such figures. The sit-in, which blocked part of First Avenue, drew over 400 participants, according to JVP. Activists highlighted the broader context of U.S. support for Israel, with calls for transparency and an end to military aid shipments.

Nas Issa, an activist with the Palestinian Youth Movement, criticized Netanyahu and former President Donald Trump for using the UN as a platform to promote a “world ruled by brute force.” He argued that their actions enable war crimes without consequence. The protests also focused on New York’s role in facilitating military shipments to Israel, with a separate news conference held the day before at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

New York Police Department officials stated that 103 individuals were arrested for disorderly conduct, though all were released. Organizers noted that nine of those detained were elected officials or candidates for office, including Darializa Avila Chevalier, the Democratic nominee for New York’s 13th congressional district. Chevalier condemned Netanyahu’s presence, stating he “belongs at The Hague,” not in New York or at the UN.

JVP organizer Jess Frankel Carrel expressed frustration over U.S. funding directed toward Israel’s conflict in Gaza. She emphasized the desire to redirect resources to support communities in the United States. “We don’t want our tax dollars spent bombing children,” she said, adding that funds should instead be used for domestic needs like education.

The demonstrations reflect growing domestic pressure on the U.S. government to reassess its relationship with Israel, particularly in light of ongoing humanitarian crises and calls for accountability. As the protests unfolded, the focus remained on the moral and ethical implications of continued military support and the need for transparency in international relations.

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