Nearly 100 Arrested During Protest Outside Schumer and Gillibrand Offices Over U.S. Bomb Sales to Israel

Nearly 100 protesters were arrested on Monday during a demonstration in Manhattan calling on Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand to block the sale of thousands of U.S.-made bombs to Israel.

The protest was organized by the anti-war group Jewish Voice for Peace. Hundreds of demonstrators first attempted to stage a sit-in inside the offices of the two senators, accusing them of supporting Israel’s military actions in Lebanon and the broader U.S.-Israeli conflict involving Iran. However, security blocked their entry into the building.

After being denied access, protesters blocked traffic outside the offices while chanting “fund people, not bombs.” Police later detained around 90 individuals and transported them away in three buses.

Among those arrested were whistleblower Chelsea Manning, actor Hari Nef, and New York City Council Member Alexa Avilés, according to a spokesperson from Jewish Voice for Peace.

The demonstration was linked to resolutions introduced by Senator Bernie Sanders, which aim to block the sale of more than $600 million worth of bombs to Israel. Although similar measures have previously failed, recent efforts have gained increased support among Senate Democrats amid growing humanitarian concerns in Gaza. However, Schumer and Gillibrand have not supported the proposals.

Protesters said recent military actions in southern Lebanon and the ongoing conflict involving Iran added urgency to their demands.

“This is the moment when Schumer and Gillibrand must listen to their constituents,” said Sonya Meyerson-Knox, communications director for Jewish Voice for Peace. She added that many Americans and New Yorkers support efforts to stop the violence.

Offices of the senators did not immediately respond to requests for comment.