Protests Erupt in NYC Against US Arms Sales to Israel

In a powerful demonstration in New York City, over 100 protesters, including Chelsea Manning, were arrested while advocating for the cessation of US arms sales to Israel. Organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, the protest aimed to influence Senators Schumer and Gillibrand to support a resolution against a proposed $658.8 million arms deal. This event highlights the growing discontent among Americans regarding military support for Israel, especially in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Manning's statements during the protest emphasized the need for accountability in US foreign policy, reflecting the deepening divisions within the country over its military involvement in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 14, 2026, 21:42 IST

Massive Demonstration in New York City

In a significant protest in New York City, over 100 individuals, including political whistleblower Chelsea Manning and actress Hari Nef, were detained while advocating for Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand to halt US arms sales to Israel. The demonstration, organized by the New York chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace, took place outside Schumer’s office on Monday, attracting more than 300 participants, including Hacks star Hannah Einbinder. Protesters obstructed traffic and voiced their demands with chants like “fund people, not bombs” as they were barred from entering the building, leading to several arrests by law enforcement, who transported them away on buses.

The demonstrators aimed to persuade both senators to endorse a Joint Resolution of Disapproval aimed at stopping the proposed $658.8 million arms sale to Israel. This protest comes amid increasing scrutiny of Israel's military operations in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, alongside the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. A recent survey by the Pew Research Center indicated that 60% of Americans now view Israel unfavorably, a notable rise from 42% in 2022.

Demands of the Protesters

Jewish Voice for Peace stated that the arrests occurred “just before a likely Senate vote” regarding the arms sales to Israel. The organization emphasized that “the US-Israel war machine is endangering millions across Iran, Lebanon, and Palestine, while many in the US struggle to access healthcare and SNAP benefits.” They urged Schumer and Gillibrand to heed their constituents' voices and vote against arming Israel. Historically, both senators have supported military aid to Israel; Schumer has previously mentioned that one of his primary duties as Senate Minority Leader is to advocate for aid to Israel. Last June, both he and Gillibrand voted to continue arms sales.

Senator Bernie Sanders has introduced several resolutions aimed at preventing the US from supplying over $600 million in military equipment to Israel due to their extensive bombing campaigns in Gaza. However, he has faced challenges in blocking these initiatives, garnering support from only a minority of Senate Democrats. His latest effort last August received backing from more than half of the Senate Democrats.

Statement from Chelsea Manning

Following her arrest, Chelsea Manning, who was previously convicted under the Espionage Act for leaking classified information to WikiLeaks, expressed to Newsweek: “The cruelties of war are not inevitable. Our actions matter in shaping the course of history.” She criticized Schumer and Gillibrand for consistently supporting arms sales “that contribute to atrocities across Palestine, Lebanon, and Iran,” urging them to align with the sentiments of New Yorkers by voting against the sales. This demonstration underscores the growing divisions within the US regarding military support for Israel amidst ongoing regional conflicts.