Hundreds of pro-Palestine protesters filled two blocks of Times Square in a peaceful protest this Friday.
Protesters demand justice for Palestine.
“This is how approximately two million 500 thousand people live in Gaza today, half of those people are children who today, since yesterday, have their electricity, water, food, the right to health, the right to live. That can’t be,” said Elizabeth Castañedas.
They ask the US government to stop supporting Israel.
“Because I am ashamed that my government has this policy of supporting extermination, genocide,” said Holy Horme.
While this protest was taking place, a pro-Israel group was demonstrating on the opposite block. People remained calm, however, there was at least one arrest.
This occurs almost a week after Israel declared war against the terrorist group Hamas, following a surprise attack.
Around the city, police presence was increased after a former Hamas chief called on people to “head to the squares and streets” for a “day of action this Friday.”
The video has gone viral on social media and there were fears of possible violence during the protests.
Both federal and local officials are on alert and authorities indicate that they continue to monitor posts on social media.
And they say that at the moment they have not yet found any credible threat to New York City.
The police recommendation is to remain alert, but not alarmed.
They say the increased police presence is to ensure New Yorkers feel safe and can continue with their lives as normal.
A law enforcement official said they have federal, state and local law enforcement and are doing everything they can to make sure we have everything under control in case of an emergency.
MTA officials also announced increased police presence on the subway system, especially at the busiest stations.
While synagogues around the city and other religious institutions continue to monitor the situation and increase their security at the entrance of Shabbat, a holy day for the Jewish community.
2023-10-13 19:58:00
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