Thousands Rally in New York to Protest Netanyahu’s UN Visit and Gaza War

Thousands of protesters filled the streets of New York City on Friday, voicing opposition to Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the United Nations General Assembly. The demonstrations, marked by Palestinian flags, keffiyeh scarves, and banners reading “Free Palestine,” “Stop starving Gaza,” and “Arms embargo now,” drew large crowds to Times Square before they marched toward the U.N. headquarters. Chants of “Netanyahu you can’t hide, we charge you with genocide” echoed through Manhattan.

The protests coincided with Netanyahu’s speech at the U.N., during which he criticized Western nations for supporting Palestinian statehood. His remarks prompted numerous delegates to walk out in protest. Outside, demonstrators expressed anger over images of starvation and devastation in Gaza, where Israel’s military campaign has killed tens of thousands and displaced the entire population. Rights groups and experts have described the assault as genocidal, though Israel rejects the accusation, calling its actions self-defense in response to the Hamas-led attack of October 2023, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and more than 250 people taken hostage.

The conflict has become a flashpoint in U.S. politics. President Donald Trump, a staunch Netanyahu ally, has cracked down on pro-Palestinian protests, ordering arrests and even attempting deportations. In New York City, the war has entered the mayoral race. Candidate Zohran Mamdani condemned Netanyahu’s presence at the U.N., while Mayor Eric Adams said he was “proud to meet” the Israeli leader, underscoring the deep divisions within the city.

Friday’s rally highlighted growing global outrage over Gaza, amplifying calls for a ceasefire and stronger international pressure on Israel. With thousands marching in one of the world’s most visible cities, the protests signaled that Netanyahu’s message at the U.N. was met not only with political opposition inside the assembly hall but also with widespread resistance on the streets of New York.