New York City, New York — Nearly 100 protesters were arrested Monday during a demonstration targeting Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand over a proposed U.S. weapons sale to Israel, according to organizers and police.
The protest, organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, began with an attempted sit-in inside the senators’ Manhattan offices before shifting outdoors when access was denied. Demonstrators then blocked traffic while chanting “fund people, not bombs,” leading to arrests and removal by police.
Among those detained were whistleblower Chelsea Manning, actor Hari Nef, and New York City Council Member Alexa Avilés, organizers said. The group stated the protest aimed to pressure the senators to support legislation introduced by Bernie Sanders that would halt more than $600 million in bomb sales to Israel.
The issue reflects broader divisions within the Democratic Party, as some lawmakers face increasing pressure from constituents over U.S. support for Israel during ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran. A recent Pew Research poll cited in reports found growing unfavorable views of Israel among Americans.
Manning said in a statement that “our actions matter in shaping the course of history,” calling on lawmakers to block further military aid. Sanders’ latest effort follows a similar 2025 measure that failed in the Senate, with Schumer and Gillibrand voting against it.
More than 300 people participated in the protest, organizers said.
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