At least 19 individuals were arrested during a massive anti-Israel protest in New York City, resulting in clashes with the NYPD, the New York Post reports. The demonstration, called "Flood Brooklyn for Palestine," took place in Bay Ridge and saw thousands of rowdy protesters engaging in confrontations with the police.

According to the NYPD, 16 protesters were arrested and issued criminal court summonses, while three others were taken into custody and subsequently released on desk appearance tickets. The protest led to the disruption and closure of traffic in Bay Ridge for several hours as the NYPD struggled to maintain control over the situation.

During the rally, protesters waved Palestinian flags, threw eggs at police officers, and even lit fires in the streets. Videos and images captured a young protester trying to prevent the police from detaining a woman holding a sign that read, "Zionism is Genocide."

The unrest in Bay Ridge follows a string of protests that have erupted since the surprise attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists on October 7. The attack claimed the lives of over 1,400 Israelis, mostly civilians, including those at a kibbutz near the Gaza border and attendees at a rave who were targeted by the militants.

Israel's retaliatory strikes in the Gaza Strip have sparked further demonstrations not only in New York City but also across the country. Protesters are voicing their demands for more than just a cease-fire, calling for an end to the blockade, the occupation, and the siege.

City Councilman Ari Kagan strongly condemned the protest, referring to it as "shameless" and emphasizing that it did not advocate for a two-state solution or the liberation of Gaza from Hamas. Kagan expressed his disapproval of the demonstration via his social media account, stating that it was a "shameful pro-Hamas and anti-Israel rally."

This protest came on the heels of another demonstration where nearly 200 pro-Palestinian protesters were arrested for obstructing traffic in Manhattan. The event, organized by the Democratic Socialists of America, received considerable attention when one participant flashed a swastika.

As tensions continue to escalate, both sides of the conflict are expressing their grievances through protests and demonstrations. The NYPD's efforts to maintain peace and order amidst such impassioned gatherings remain a challenging task.