Actors Susan Sarandon, Hannah Einbinder Arrested at Fiery Anti-Netanyahu Protest in New York

New York City witnessed a dramatic scene outside the United Nations headquarters on Thursday, September 24, 2026, as Hollywood luminaries Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder were among over 100 individuals arrested during a heated protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The demonstration unfolded as Netanyahu prepared to address the UN General Assembly, drawing a significant police presence and media attention. 'One of the Easiest Decisions': Benjamin Netanyahu on Israel’s Attack on Iran at UN (Video).

Sarandon, Einbinder Among Dozens Detained

Academy Award winner Susan Sarandon, known for films like 'Thelma & Louise' and 'Dead Man Walking', and Emmy-winning 'Hacks' star Hannah Einbinder were both seen being cuffed by NYPD officers. The New York Post reported that Einbinder, a vocal pro-Palestinian advocate, was also "marched away" from the demonstration. Among the other prominent figures reportedly arrested were Democratic congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier, New York City council member Chi Osse, and comedian Caleb Hearon.

The protest, organised by the Jewish activist group Jewish Voice for Peace, saw over 400 people gather, many in identical white T-shirts emblazoned with slogans such as "Fund people not bombs," "No war," and "Free Palestine." Demonstrators blocked a street near the UN, holding banners that read "Stop Arming Israel" and "End the Genocide." A spokesperson for the NYPD confirmed that officers responded to reports of an "unscheduled demonstration" blocking an an intersection, issued warnings, and subsequently took into custody individuals who did not comply. As Einbinder was being led away, she was heard shouting, "Free Palestine! Get Netanyahu out of New York."

Netanyahu's UN Address Amidst Walkouts

The arrests occurred as Prime Minister Netanyahu was delivering a speech at the UN General Assembly, where he defended Israel's actions in the region. His address was met with significant international dissent, as dozens of envoys from various countries walked out during his speech. This diplomatic protest highlighted the growing international isolation Netanyahu faces amid Israel's ongoing military operations in Gaza and settler violence in the occupied West Bank.

Actors' Longstanding Advocacy

Both Sarandon and Einbinder have been outspoken proponents of Palestinian rights, a stance that has previously impacted their careers. Susan Sarandon, 79, was famously dropped by her talent agency, United Talent Agency (UTA), in November 2023, following controversial comments made at a pro-Palestinian rally in New York. Just this month at the Venice Film Festival, Sarandon stated she continues to face professional repercussions due to her political views, noting, "I've still had movies taken away recently because there are agencies that are telling people not to hire me still."

Hannah Einbinder, 31, a Jewish comedian and actress, has consistently used her platform to advocate for Palestine. During her Emmy acceptance speech in September 2025 for her role as Ava Daniels in the HBO series Hacks, she declared, "F*** ICE and free Palestine." She has openly stated her belief that it is her obligation as a Jewish person to distinguish between Jewish identity and the State of Israel. No Palestinian State as Long as I Am PM: Netanyahu Rejects Gaza Peace Plan.

This latest incident underscores the continuing tension and passionate advocacy surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, reverberating through the entertainment industry and global political stage alike.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 25, 2026 01:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).