New York: More than 100 people were arrested during demonstrations in New York as protesters gathered near the United Nations headquarters to oppose Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit and his address to the UN General Assembly.

According to the latest account from New York police cited in international reporting, 103 people were arrested for disorderly conduct during one of the major demonstrations. Those detained were later released.

The protest took place as Netanyahu was preparing to address world leaders at the United Nations. Demonstrators gathered near the UN complex, blocked part of First Avenue and called for an end to the war in Gaza and US military support for Israel.

The demonstration was organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, with hundreds of people participating in the wider protest activity around the UN headquarters.

Police instructed protesters to clear the roadway. Some demonstrators moved toward the sidewalks, while others remained seated in the street and continued their protest. Officers subsequently moved in and took people into custody.

Among those detained were actors Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder, along with New York political figures and congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier.

The arrests occurred during a highly charged day of political activity surrounding Netanyahu’s appearance at the United Nations. Supporters and opponents of the Israeli prime minister held competing demonstrations in New York.

Inside the UN General Assembly, Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions and rejected accusations that Israel had committed genocide in Gaza. His speech also addressed Iran and other regional security issues.

Dozens of international delegates walked out of the General Assembly hall as Netanyahu began speaking. The walkout added another visible sign of disagreement surrounding Israel’s policies and its conduct during the Gaza conflict.

The protests outside the UN reflected the broader international controversy surrounding the war in Gaza. Demonstrators argued that Netanyahu should not use the UN platform to defend Israel’s military actions.

Netanyahu, however, presented Israel’s position from the UN podium and defended his government’s approach to the conflict.

The demonstrations also highlighted divisions within New York itself. While large groups protested against Netanyahu, other supporters gathered separately to express support for Israel and oppose the criticism directed at the Israeli government.

The New York Police Department faced the task of managing several demonstrations around the UN headquarters while maintaining access to surrounding streets and security around the international diplomatic gathering.

The arrests became one of the most prominent political developments surrounding Netanyahu’s visit to New York.

The events also demonstrated how the Gaza conflict continues to generate political tensions far beyond the Middle East, including in the United States and at major international institutions.

Netanyahu’s appearance at the United Nations came as Israel faces continued international criticism over the Gaza war, while Israeli officials continue to defend the country’s military operations and security policies.

The protests, arrests and diplomatic walkouts together underscored the deep divisions surrounding Israel’s policies and the ongoing conflict.

As the United Nations General Assembly continues, the Gaza war and the broader Middle East crisis are expected to remain among the most contentious issues discussed by world leaders.