Police arrest over 100 protesters including Susan Sarandon outside UN as Netanyahu speaks

Street demonstrations near the United Nations

On 24 September 2026, demonstrations organized by Jewish Voice for Peace and pro-Palestinian groups gathered near the United Nations headquarters in Manhattan. Approximately 1,000 people marched through the streets, while hundreds staged a sit-in two blocks south of the headquarters to protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Demonstrators wore white shirts bearing slogans including "Fund people not bombs," "No war," and "Free Palestine," while demanding an end to United States military aid to Israel. Protesters held banners and chanted accusations of war crimes against the Israeli government. Manijeh Moradian, a university professor participating in the rally, stated that citizens have a duty to oppose military funding.

“What's being done to Gaza, the obliteration of an entire society, in our name, with our tax dollars, this is our responsibility to speak out against, and Netanyahu has no right to use the platform of the United Nations to justify these atrocities.”

High-profile arrests and police intervention

The New York Police Department moved against the core demonstration after protesters blocked a street intersection and refused verbal dispersal orders issued over loudspeakers. Officers on bicycles surrounded the group seated on the pavement, secured demonstrators with zip ties, and escorted them to police transport buses. The department confirmed that more than 100 people were taken into custody across Manhattan during the demonstrations. Among those arrested were actors Susan Sarandon, Hannah Einbinder, and Cynthia Nixon, alongside Democratic congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier and New York City Council member Chi Ossé. Jewish Voice for Peace executive director Stefanie Fox stated that the demonstration sought an immediate halt to military support.

“We are here not only to oppose Netanyahu, but also to say stop arming Israel and stop the genocide, we demand an end to impunity and complicity, right here.”

Diplomatic walkout inside the General Assembly hall

Inside the United Nations headquarters, Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the General Assembly to defend Israeli military operations in Gaza and the region. As Netanyahu approached the podium, dozens of national delegates stood up and walked out of the assembly hall in protest. The Israeli prime minister delivered his address to a partially emptied room, directing remarks toward the departing delegations and countering international criticism ahead of domestic elections in Israel. The walkout left large sections of seats vacant during his defense of the campaign.

“If there are other moral cowards left who have not yet left this hall, do so now.”

Political reactions and activist background

The demonstrations took place with public support from New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has frequently criticized the policies of the Israeli government. Demonstrators in Manhattan cited the arrest warrant issued against Netanyahu by the International Criminal Court in November 2024 as grounds for their mobilization. Activists such as retired participant Paul stated that growing numbers of Jewish Americans oppose Israeli actions in Gaza and reject Netanyahu speaking on their behalf. Susan Sarandon, whose detention followed earlier public protests regarding Gaza, stated in recent interviews that her vocal opposition to United States aid has led to professional boycotts in Hollywood. Demonstrators continued chanting anti-war slogans outside police buses as officers finished processing detainees on Thursday evening.