Hundreds of protesters have clashed with police after storming Grand Central Station to demand a ceasefire in the Middle East.
Members of the Jewish Voice for Peace said they are staging a “historic sit-in” in the main concourse of the iconic Manhattan station.
Protesters could be heard chanting, “No more guns, no more war.” A ceasefire is what we are fighting for.”
Footage has also emerged on social media showing a large crowd trying to enter the station but being stopped by NYPD officers.
Signs have also been hung around the hall that read: “Palestinians must be free.”
Protesters could be heard chanting, “No more guns, no more war.” A ceasefire is what we are fighting for.”
Members of the Jewish Voice for Peace said they are staging a ‘historic sit-in’ in the main concourse of the iconic Manhattan station
Others said: “Loy for the dead and fight like hell for the living,” and another called for an immediate ceasefire in the region.
Jewish Voice for Peace had issued a statement about their planned protest, saying: “Over 7,000 Palestinians and 1,400 Israelis have been killed in the past two weeks.
“Every bomb dropped on Gaza threatens the lives of 2.2 million Palestinians in Gaza and 200 Israeli hostages. The only way to save lives is an immediate ceasefire.”
Subsequent videos emerged showing officers trying to disperse the crowds inside the station, and some being arrested.
According to a social media user, police had announced that those who remained seated risked arrest.
After the protest began earlier tonight, Jewish Voice for Peace encouraged others to join them.
In a social media post, the group said: ‘Amid a massive bombing attack on Gaza, hundreds of Jews and friends take over Grand Central Station in a historic sit-in calling for a ceasefire.
‘Come join now! The location of this demonstration is the main concourse at Grand Central Station.”