Anti-Israel Protesters Disrupt Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, 21 Arrested

New York City—On Thursday, anti—Israel protesters attempted to disrupt the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for the second consecutive year, temporarily halting the event before being swiftly removed by police.

The protest, which occurred along the parade route near West 55th Street and Sixth Avenue, involved a group of approximately 20 demonstrators who briefly stopped the iconic Ronald McDonald balloon.

Police officers detain protesters during the 98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, U.S., November 28, 2024. REUTERS

Protesters, some carrying a banner that read, “Don’t celebrate genocide!” sat down in the middle of the parade route, halting the progress of the balloon and prompting a loud backlash from parade-goers. Onlookers were heard booing the demonstrators and shouting at them to move, while some cheered for law enforcement’s intervention.

As the protesters chanted, “Free, free Palestine!” According to sources, NYPD officers quickly responded, making at least 21 arrests. Video footage from the scene showed police officers tackling some protesters to the ground while others were escorted away without resistance.

People protest during the 98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, U.S., November 28, 2024. REUTERS

One scuffle was captured on camera as protesters holding the banner were wrestled to the ground and handcuffed, their banner becoming a crumpled heap beneath them.

Many in the parade crowd cheered as the arrests were made, chanting “USA! USA! USA!” while police swiftly cleared the area. Within minutes, the parade resumed, with the balloon handlers resuming their procession and the balloon line leader announcing, “Ronald McDonald, everybody!” to signal the return of the parade.

Protesters entered the parade route at W. 55th Street and Sixth Avenue. REUTERS

This year’s disruption came despite a stern warning from New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who had cautioned protesters on Wednesday night not to repeat last year’s disruptive actions. In 2023, several demonstrators glued themselves to the parade route, causing delays and controversy.

Video shows some unruly protesters being pulled away and flipped over onto their stomachs to be handcuffed while others willingly stood up and walked with police away from the parade. REUTERS

Adams addressed the threat of protest the night before the parade, stating, “I want to take a moment to tell those grinches that believe they are going to disrupt the parade that it is not going to happen.”

The protests were met with boos and jeers from spectators gathered to watch the parade. REUTERS

Mayor Eric Adams had already warned protesters not to dare repeat last year’s disgrace, where many glued their hands to the parade route. Zoe hussain / NY POST

The protest marks an ongoing clash between demonstrators advocating for Palestinian rights and those celebrating the Thanksgiving Day tradition. Still, this year’s quick resolution ensured the parade’s success and continuity without significant incidents.