Police presence increased in Times Square for ‘All Out for Palestine’ rally
This comes as city and state police enhanced their security measures following a former Hamas leader’s recent call for worldwide protests in support of Palestinians.
Police presence in Times Square was increased for a pro-Palestinian rally that took place on Friday between 41st and 42nd streets on Broadway.
This comes as city and state police enhanced their security measures following a former Hamas leader’s recent call for worldwide protests in support of Palestinians.
Organizers say that New Yorkers of all faiths and political views were present for the rally to stand in solidarity with Palestinians, as those in attendance called to an end for what they describe as colonization and genocide.
Demonstrators were surrounded by a heavy police presence and barricades, and they marched from 42nd Street down to the Israeli Consulate on Second Avenue to continue their rally.
"We are here today en masse to make it clear to the world that the people of New York are standing with the people of Palestine and the people of Gaza who are suffering right now under immense genocidal and indiscriminate violence at the hands of Israel," said Kaleen Hawa, organizer of the Palestinian Youth Movement.
Nationwide security has also been stepped up as some fear that demonstrations could become violent.
The NYPD and FBI say there are currently no credible threats, and the increased police presence is out of an abundance of caution.
