On Sunday, pro-Palestinian demonstrators took over Times Square in New York City, just one day after the terrorist organization Hamas brutally attacked Israel, killing hundreds of civilians.
Infuriated counter protesters waving Israeli flags clashed with 300 enraged placard-carrying protestors, one of whom was observed on the front line carrying a swastika, as per to Daily Mail.
Tensions Escalate Amidst Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
After a large gathering of Palestinian supporters in Times Square, there was a confrontation between opposing demonstrators near the United Nations headquarters in New York City. In the meantime, American Palestinians demonstrated in front of the Israeli consulates in Atlanta and Chicago.
The incursion coincided with Simchat Torah celebrations, a significant Jewish holiday, prompting widespread condemnation from Jewish communities and organizations. A Jewish community congregated at Congregation Sherith Israel, one of the oldest congregations in the United States, in San Francisco.
Some students from Israel's Ben-Gurion University in Beersheba, which is 40 kilometers from Gaza, spent a week in San Francisco as part of a Hillel organization delegation. They showed a desire to return home and assist in any way possible. Yuval Appleboim, 26 years old, revealed to USA Today that his family resides less than 20 miles from Gaza.
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Protests Spur Condemnation from NYC Leaders
On Saturday, supporters of Palestine congregated in Times Square for a demonstration that was condemned by both the mayor and the governor. Adams deemed it repulsive, while Hochul deemed it morally unacceptable.
Those rallying in support of Israel condemned the attacks conducted by Hamas over the weekend. They expressed concern for their relatives and those from other nations who are ensnared in the violence.
Eventually, the rallies shifted to Second Avenue. Barricades and a large number of NYPD officers were deployed to prevent violence. Fadi Attan, a supporter of Palestine, stated, "Peace cannot exist without human equality and justice for all."
Sami Steigmann survived the Holocaust. "In this century, the twenty-first century, such hatred has no place. We have distinctions. "The only way we can work and live together is if both sides desire peace," said Steigmann.
At a community vigil in Bennett Park, Washington Heights, the anguish was audible in every voice and visible on every countenance. Rep. Adriano Espaillat stated, "We stand here in solidarity with the state of Israel and to denounce terrorism," adding that he will be in Washington on Tuesday to join President Joe Biden in his unwavering support of Israel.
Mark Levine, borough president of Manhattan, asked the audience, "How many of you currently have a friend or loved one in Israel?" CBS News reported.
The number of individuals who raised their hands indicated how many people in New York are impacted by a surprise and barbaric Hamas attack that disrupted a peaceful holiday.
