Thousands Protest in NYC on Anniversary of Israel-Hamas War: What Happened?

Thousands Flood NYC in Protest on Anniversary of Israel-Hamas War

On the first anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war, thousands of anti-Israel protesters marched through New York City on Monday, October 5, 2024. The demonstrations, organized by the pro-Palestine group Within Our Lifetime (WOL), aimed to show solidarity with Gaza and the Palestinian people.

Protesters gathered in various locations across the city, including Wall Street, Union Square, Washington Square Park, City Hall, Grand Central Station, Times Square, and Columbus Circle. They waved Palestinian flags, chanted slogans, and carried signs expressing their opposition to Israel. Some of the chants included "Israel bombs, USA pays, how many kids did you kill today?" and "NYU you can’t hide! You support genocide!" The latter appeared to target New York University, which has faced calls to divest from Israel.

Earlier in the day, Columbia University students staged a pro-Palestine walkout, encouraging participants to wear black clothing, conceal tattoos, and wear face masks to "protect from surveillance." Some students who participated in the walkout later joined WOL's demonstrations.

In anticipation of the protests, Columbia University Interim President Katrina Armstrong announced increased public safety efforts, including barricades, dividers, and reduced building access. This follows the arrest of over 200 people during pro-Palestine protests in April after Columbia authorized the use of the NYPD on campus.

It remains unclear if any arrests have been made during WOL's demonstrations.

This is a developing story and may be updated.