Pro-Palestinian protesters block airport access roads in New York, Los Angeles

The Pro-Palestinian protesters aimed to raise awareness about the Israel-Hamas war and advocate for expanded rights for Palestinians.

The demonstrations caused significant traffic disruptions on the access roads to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and the Los Angeles International Airport. Some travelers had to leave their vehicles and walk to bypass the blocked roads.

Yes, a total of 62 people were arrested during the two protests – 26 in New York and 35 in Los Angeles. These arrests were made in response to various incidents during the demonstrations.

In New York, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey dispatched buses to offer rides to travelers affected by the traffic backup. In Los Angeles, the police arrested individuals for rioting and one for battery of a police officer. They also accused protesters of attacking uninvolved passersby.

Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7, there have been frequent protests in cities across the United States. Pro-Palestinian organizers have escalated their actions, disrupting notable events in New York City.

Mayor Eric Adams criticized some of the protest organizers’ tactics and suggested that police may need to increase their response to prevent disruptions of city events and infrastructure.