Large protests were held around the United Nations headquarters in New York before Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s address to the 81st UN General Assembly.
Hundreds of people attended the action led by Jewish Voice for Peace, while protesters held sit-ins on First Avenue and at several points around the UN, bringing traffic to a standstill.
The protesters carried signs reading “Fund people, not bombs” and “Let Gaza live,” as well as banners calling for an end to arms support for Israel. Jewish, Palestinian, Iranian and Lebanese New Yorkers, along with various activists and public figures, also took part in the action.
Police intervened against protesters who blocked the road and detained some participants. Oscar-winning actor Susan Sarandon was among those detained.
Footage published by Reuters showed Sarandon being detained by police, while many protesters continued their sit-in near the UN building.

Netanyahu’s address accompanied by protests
The protests took place as Netanyahu prepared to respond at the UN General Assembly to international criticism of Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
Netanyahu had previously said he would defend Israel’s military operations from the UN podium and respond to the allegations directed at his country.
Protesters around the UN called for an end to the war in Gaza and for the arms support provided to Israel to be halted.
Other protests linked to Netanyahu’s visit and his UN address were also planned to take place in New York throughout the day.