Dozens of Anti-Israel Protesters Arrested Outside Biden's NYC Fundraiser, Clashing with Police

On June 29th, a wave of anti-Israel protesters instigated a turbulent spectacle in New York City, aiming to disrupt a fundraising event for President Biden following his recent debate with former President Trump.

During their march from Madison Square Garden to the Hammerstein Ballroom, where the extravagant political gathering was held, the demonstrators chanted "There is only one solution — Intifada revolution!" The chaos peaked as protesters clashed with police, resulting in at least 38 individuals being apprehended. Videos captured protesters shouting expletives and raising their middle fingers at officers, while some ignited green and red smoke bombs. The contentious scene included a protester in a wheelchair amidst the smoke-filled air.

Organizer's Call to Action

The confrontation was orchestrated by the anti-Israel activist group, Within Our Lifetime, who rallied supporters to "confront genocide Joe" through social media. The group's poster on X warned, "Genocide Joe and anyone who supports him or his genocide in Palestine will be met with protests everywhere they go." The protesters, many of whom were masked and carrying Palestinian flags, also displayed the trans flag, the flag of Saudi Arabia, and the flag of Yemen.

Aggravation at Madison Square Park

The agitation continued at Madison Square Park, where a pro-Israel supporter confronted the protesters, brandishing what appeared to be a picture of a Hamas hostage taken in the Oct. 7 attacks. Amidst the commotion, anti-Israel protesters vehemently chanted "Genocide Joe has got to go."

Fundraiser Attendees

Inside the Hammerstein Ballroom, over 640 donors eagerly awaited Biden's speech, following his widely criticized debate with Trump. The fundraiser tickets ranged from $250 for balcony seats to an astonishing $500,000 for a table. Notable personalities like actors Billy Porter and Alan Cumming were present at the event.

National and Local Impact

New York City has become a focal point for anti-Israel protests in recent months. The tensions escalated nationwide after arrests of anti-Israel protesters at Columbia University in April and during a rally outside an exhibit memorializing the victims of Hamas' Oct. 7 attack. These events have sparked significant unrest, garnering attention and sparking clashes with police.

Biden's Reassurance

At a crucial moment leading up to the fundraiser, Biden addressed Democrats in North Carolina, aiming to bolster confidence in his leadership. Acknowledging his age, Biden reassured supporters, "I know I’m not a young man, to state the obvious," but emphasized his unwavering commitment to the nation and its people