NEW YORK CITY - Amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters have taken to the streets of New York City, targeting major transit hubs such as Grand Central, Port Authority Bus Terminal, and Penn Station. The demonstrators, advocating for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, have created disruptions throughout the city.

On Monday afternoon, a large gathering of demonstrators was witnessed at Grand Central, with hundreds of individuals chanting slogans and waving banners in the main concourse. Later, they proceeded to march through Midtown, causing traffic disruptions. The protesters then made their way towards the Port Authority. Reports indicate that by 4:45 p.m., protesters had gathered outside Penn Station on Seventh Avenue. Some demonstrators even entered the station, brandishing Palestinian flags and banners while commuters awaited their trains.

Among the protesters was renowned actor Alec Baldwin, who was seen voicing his support alongside the crowd. Police presence was observed at the scene, monitoring the protests, which appeared to be peaceful at the time. No information regarding potential arrests has been disclosed thus far.

The timing and locations of the citywide protests were shared via an Instagram post by Within Our Lifetime, a pro-Palestinian group boasting a significant following of over 116,000 individuals. According to the post, the designated protest times were as follows: 3 p.m. at Grand Central, 4 p.m. at Port Authority Bus Terminal, and 5 p.m. at Penn Station. The organizers encouraged participants to bring banners, bullhorns, and Bluetooth speakers.

Organizers also advised demonstrators to gather and protest in the outer boroughs before moving towards Manhattan locations via the subway or by marching. This strategic approach aimed to maximize visibility and impact.

The United Nations (UN) headquarters in Midtown Manhattan has also been a focal point for pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Preceding a vote on a nonbinding resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, dozens of demonstrators gathered outside the UN last Tuesday. After the United States vetoed a resolution in the Security Council, Arab and Islamic nations convened an emergency session of the General Assembly, hoping to pass a similar resolution. The assembled protesters chanted "Free Palestine" and waved Palestinian flags as they gathered on First Avenue. Police issued orders to evacuate the street, threatening arrests for non-compliance.

Furthermore, last month witnessed a high-profile protest as pro-Palestinian demonstrators occupied the lobby of The New York Times headquarters. Accusing the media outlet of biased coverage favoring Israel during the Israel-Hamas conflict, thousands of individuals marched through Midtown Manhattan. Led by a group of media workers named "Writers Bloc," the protesters staged a sit-in inside the Times atrium, demanding a cease-fire. The demonstrators, remaining in the building for over an hour, solemnly read the names of the thousands of Palestinians who lost their lives in Gaza, including 36 confirmed journalist casualties. Additionally, they distributed a mock newspaper entitled "The New York War Crimes," accusing the media of complicity in "genocide laundering" and urging The Times' editorial board to publicly endorse a cease-fire.

As the Israel-Hamas conflict persists, pro-Palestinian demonstrators continue to raise their voices in solidarity, making their presence felt throughout New York City, particularly at major transit hubs and institutions of influence.