New York Protesters Arrested During Netanyahu’s UN Visit
During his 81st‑session UN address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was met with massive protests in New York. Over 100 demonstrators, including politicians, celebrities and activists, were arrested for blocking traffic outside the UN headquarters. The demonstrations highlighted concerns…
By Felo News Desk · Published
On the afternoon of September 24, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered his speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. The event was immediately followed by a wave of protests that saw more than a hundred people detained by police for blocking traffic outside the UN headquarters.
Protest Actions and Arrests
Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) and the New York‑based Democratic Socialists of America (NY‑DSA) organized a sit‑in on First Avenue, just outside the UN complex. The blockade halted a portion of the avenue, prompting the New York Police Department (NYPD) to order the crowd to disperse. When the demonstrators refused, officers arrested 103 individuals for disorderly conduct. All were released later that day. Among those detained were nine elected officials and candidates, including Democratic nominee Darializa Avila Chevalier for New York’s 13th congressional district.
Separately, a larger march organized by the Palestinian Youth Movement and The People’s Forum streamed through the streets toward the UN building. The marchers carried signs calling for an end to Israel’s “genocidal war” in Gaza and demanding that the United States halt military shipments to Israel.
Key Voices in the Demonstration
- Jose – a New York native who described Netanyahu as a war criminal and demanded accountability.
- Nas Issa – a Palestinian Youth Movement activist who criticized the UN as a platform for “bully pulpit” rhetoric.
- Darializa Avila Chevalier – the Democratic congressional candidate who said Netanyahu should face international justice.
- Jess Frankel Carrel – a JVP organizer who urged that U.S. tax dollars be directed toward domestic needs rather than Israel’s war.
- Taher Dahleh – a Palestinian Youth Movement organizer who called New York “a safe haven for fugitives of international law.”
- Hannah Einbinder – the actress‑comedian who was photographed in custody and posted a statement condemning Netanyahu’s visit.
Netanyahu’s Speech and the City’s Response
Netanyahu’s address was marked by a sharp rebuttal of accusations that Israel had committed genocide in Gaza. He dismissed the claim as “the greatest lie of the century” and accused New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of spreading anti‑Semitic lies. Mamdani, who had pledged to arrest Netanyahu if he visited, responded that he lacked the authority to do so, though he condemned the prime minister’s rhetoric.
Why the Protest Matters
The demonstrations underscored the growing domestic opposition in the United States to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and the perceived complicity of U.S. policymakers. By arresting a mix of activists, politicians and celebrities, the protest highlighted the intersection of local politics, international law, and human rights advocacy.
What Happens Next?
While the arrested protesters were released, the organizers have vowed to continue their campaign. JVP and the Palestinian Youth Movement plan further actions, including calls for increased transparency over U.S. military aid shipments. The mayor’s office remains under scrutiny for its stance on Netanyahu’s visit, and the international community watches to see whether the United Nations will address the allegations of war crimes.
Key facts
- Over 100 arrests during Netanyahu’s UN visit
- Demonstrators included politicians, celebrities, and activists
- Netanyahu dismissed genocide allegations and criticized the mayor
- Mayor pledged to arrest Netanyahu but lacked authority
- Protesters demanded an end to U.S. military aid to Israel
- Organizers plan further actions for transparency
- The event highlighted domestic opposition to Israel’s Gaza campaign
Why it matters
The protests illustrate the intensity of U.S. domestic debate over Israel’s actions in Gaza and the role of American policy in supporting the conflict. They also show how local politics and international law intersect in a global city like New York.
Frequently asked questions
Why was the protest blocked on First Avenue?
The sit‑in was intended to draw attention to U.S. support for Israel’s Gaza campaign and to prevent traffic from reaching the UN building during Netanyahu’s speech.
Were the arrested protesters charged?
They were detained for disorderly conduct but were released later that day without formal charges.
What is the mayor’s position on Netanyahu’s visit?
Mayor Zohran Mamdani pledged to arrest Netanyahu if he came to New York but later stated he did not have the authority to do so.
