Actresses Susan Sarandon, known for her role in “Thelma & Louise,” and Hannah Einbinder from “Hacks” were among those arrested on Thursday during a protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in New York City.
A spokesperson for the New York City Police Department (NYPD) stated that officers intervened following reports of an “unpermitted demonstration” where protesters were blocking an intersection. “Members of the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau issued warnings, informing participants that they should disperse,” the spokesperson noted.
Despite these warnings, many individuals continued to block the intersection, leading to the detention of several people who did not comply, although the spokesperson did not specify the exact number of arrests.
The protest was organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, which describes itself as the largest organization of Jews supporting Palestine worldwide. Demonstrators displayed signs reading “Stop Arming Israel” and “End the Genocide.” This event coincided with Netanyahu’s address to the United Nations General Assembly, during which many diplomats boycotted his speech, leaving the room as he started to speak.
Netanyahu remarked, “If there are any cowards in this room who have not yet left, please do so now” at the beginning of his address.
Sarandon Comments on Consequences of Her Political Views
Susan Sarandon, whose notable films include “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” “Dead Man Walking,” and “The Witches of Eastwick,” has been vocal in her opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza. Earlier this month, she revealed at the Venice Film Festival that her political opinions have cost her career opportunities.
“I have had films pulled from me recently because there are agents telling people not to hire me anymore. But that is the power structure,” she explained. Sarandon expressed her belief that while public understanding of the situation may be changing, there remain strong pro-Zionist positions within the industry that have not shifted against her.
“I have found my family, I have found my people, and I am okay,” she concluded.
