Protesters took to the streets of New York City on Monday, April 13 to oppose United States military support for ‘Israel’, calling for an end to arms sales and intervention in ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
The demonstration drew large crowds near the offices of Senate leaders Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand. Historically, both senators have maintained a pro-‘Israel’ position, which has recently drawn sharp criticism from constituents advocating for Palestinian rights.
Schumer has a long-standing reputation as a passionate defender of ‘Israel’, frequently describing himself as a “lifelong supporter.” Gillibrand has similarly secured significant funding for ‘Israeli’ defense programs, including $500 million for missile defense.
‘Israel’ is the largest cumulative recipient of US foreign aid since World War II. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, the US government has provided more than $300 billion in total economic and military assistance to Israel since 1948, when adjusted for inflation.
That long-term support is largely structured through multi-year agreements. The current 2019-2028 Memorandum of Understanding, signed during the Obama White House, commits the US to $38 billion over ten years—including $33 billion in Foreign Military Financing (FMF) and $5 billion for missile defense systems.
Protesters chanted slogans such as “stop the bombs,” “end the killings,” and “free Palestine,” while also expressing solidarity with people in Iran, Lebanon, and the Gaza Strip.
Participants carried banners and called for a halt to US-‘Israeli’ military actions.
“We want an end to the bombs and to US support that makes these wars possible,” one protester said, echoing the demands heard throughout the rally.
Police intervened during the demonstration, leading to dozens of arrests. Organizers said around 90 people were detained, including Chelsea Manning, the former US Army intelligence analyst and whistleblower. The New York City Police Department confirmed multiple arrests but did not provide a specific figure.
The protest comes amid growing scrutiny of US foreign policy as conflicts in the Middle East intensify. Activists also pointed to the broader humanitarian impact of ‘Israel’’s ongoing war in Gaza and strikes in Lebanon, which have resulted in large-scale displacement and civilian casualties.
The demonstration is part of a continuing wave of protests in New York and other US cities, where activists are increasingly mobilizing against military intervention abroad and calling for a shift in foreign policy priorities.
