Netanyahu UN Speech Sparks Protests, Celebrity Detentions in New York 2026

Netanyahu's UN speech in New York has ignited a firestorm of protests, resulting in celebrity detentions and widespread backlash. The Israeli prime minister's address to the United Nations General Assembly on Friday was met with immediate condemnation and walkouts, as he decried what he called a global anti-Jewish conspiracy and took aim at critics of Israel's actions in Gaza.

Netanyahu's Controversial UN Address

In his speech, Netanyahu branded Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan a "tyrant" and described New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani as the "antisemitic mayor of New York." He also declared that Israel's war in Gaza was not a genocide, stating, "it's the opposite of genocide." The address came just hours after Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas said his delegation was "unlawfully" denied visas by the Trump administration to attend the meeting.

Dozens of delegates walked out of the General Assembly Hall as Netanyahu took the stage, inspired by a Palestinian call. The walkout underscored the deep divisions over Israel's policies and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Protests Erupt on New York Streets

Outside the UN headquarters, more than 100 people were arrested as protests drew hundreds of Jewish, Palestinian, Iranian, and Lebanese New Yorkers, among others. Among those detained were celebrities Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder, who joined the demonstration in solidarity with Palestinians.

The protests highlighted the growing grassroots movement against Israel's actions and the US government's support for them. Demonstrators chanted slogans and carried signs calling for an end to the violence and for Palestinian liberation.

Celebrity Involvement and Detentions

The detention of high-profile figures like Sarandon and Einbinder brought additional media attention to the protests. Sarandon, a long-time activist, has been vocal in her support for Palestinian rights, while Einbinder, known for her role in "Hacks," has also used her platform to speak out.

Their arrests sparked conversations on social media about celebrity activism and the risks involved in taking a public stance on controversial issues.

Macklemore Announces Free Palestine Tour

In related news, US rapper Macklemore, who was removed from Ed Sheeran's US tour after voicing support for Palestine, has announced a "Free Palestine" tour to benefit humanitarian aid organizations. The charity shows will visit Dublin, Paris, and London, with a North American run to be announced.

Macklemore's decision to organize the tour reflects the growing cultural pushback against Israel's policies and the desire among artists to use their influence for political change.

Key Takeaways

• Netanyahu's UN speech sparked walkouts and protests, with over 100 arrests.
• Celebrities Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder were among those detained.
• Macklemore announced a Free Palestine tour to support humanitarian aid.
• The events highlight the intensifying global debate over Israel and Gaza.

Comparing Reactions: UN vs. Public

FAQ

What did Netanyahu say in his UN speech?

Netanyahu decried a global anti-Jewish conspiracy, called Turkey's president a "tyrant," described NYC Mayor Mamdani as "antisemitic," and stated that Israel's war in Gaza is "the opposite of genocide."

Who was arrested during the protests?

Over 100 people were arrested, including celebrities Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder.

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What is Macklemore's Free Palestine tour?

Macklemore announced a charity tour to benefit humanitarian aid organizations, with shows in Dublin, Paris, and London, and a North American run to be announced.