Actor Hannah Einbinder has expressed her views online, redirecting the focus to Gaza rather than her recent arrest at a protest outside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech at the UN. In a statement shared on Instagram, Einbinder emphasized the ongoing genocidal conflict in Palestine and Southern Lebanon, criticizing the U.S. for its support of Israel. She urged for attention to be on ending the devastating war rather than the arrest spectacle.
Einbinder, along with actors Susan Sarandon and others, was among over 100 protesters detained during Netanyahu’s address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. Images captured Sarandon, 79, and Einbinder, 31, being escorted by police in handcuffs, with Sarandon donning a shirt advocating for funding people instead of bombs.
During the protest organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, chants echoed demanding to stop arming Israel and allow Gaza and Iran to live. The group reported over 100 arrests, highlighting the plea to end the ongoing conflict and cut U.S. military aid to Israel.
Supporting Einbinder’s stance, Canadian actor Elliot Page echoed the sentiments on social media. Amnesty International and a UN inquiry have labeled Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocidal, a claim vehemently denied by Israel. Netanyahu defended Israel’s military operations as necessary to counter Hamas and protect civilians.
Israel has faced criticism for hindering aid efforts in Gaza, with accusations of violating humanitarian law and impeding international organizations from providing assistance. Delegates walked out of Netanyahu’s UN speech, denouncing his leadership amidst mounting global scrutiny over Israel’s actions in Gaza.
As the U.S. plans a substantial arms sale to Israel, Einbinder and others have condemned the continued support, alleging complicity in the conflict. Israeli officials have discussed controversial plans to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, sparking concerns of potential ethnic cleansing.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has drawn worldwide attention, with calls for accountability and an end to the violence. Netanyahu’s appearance at the UN has reignited debates on Israel’s actions, highlighting the urgency for a peaceful resolution to the longstanding crisis.