Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder Arrested at UN Protest Ahead of Netanyahu's Address
The actresses were among dozens detained by NYPD during a demonstration near the United Nations.
Actress Susan Sarandon was among dozens of protesters, including fellow actress Hannah Einbinder, who were arrested by NYPD officers on First Avenue ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to the United Nations General Assembly. Cynthia Nixon was also present at the protest but was not among those taken into custody.
The demonstration, which began around noon, was organized by socialist groups and Jewish Voice For Peace. Protesters aimed to denounce Netanyahu's actions in Gaza and the ongoing conflict. Chants of "free Palestine," "stop arming Israel," and "let Iran live" were heard.
Arrests began less than an hour into the protest as officers placed zip-ties on demonstrators who were chanting slogans including "Netanyahu, you can’t hide! We charge you with genocide!" The International Criminal Court has issued a warrant for Netanyahu's arrest on accusations of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza, though the U.S. does not recognize the ICC's authority.
Sarandon, 79, who has previously stated she believes she has been blacklisted in Hollywood due to her pro-Palestinian comments, appeared serene as she was cuffed by officers. This marks a notable instance of her being detained at a protest, similar to an incident three years prior at the New York state Capitol concerning minimum wage for tipped restaurant workers. Einbinder, known for her vocal support of Palestine, was also reportedly arrested.
Sarandon has spoken publicly about the impact of her political stances on her career. She recalled being dropped by her talent agency and having projects canceled after calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. She stated that even foreign filmmakers were advised against hiring her. Despite these professional challenges, Sarandon expressed that the overall narrative regarding the situation has shifted, with increased public awareness.
Representatives for Sarandon and Einbinder have been contacted for comment but had not yet responded at the time of publication. NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani had previously urged that Netanyahu be arrested, citing the ICC warrant, though New York City authorities lack the jurisdiction to do so.