Israel, Palestinian Gaza Gathering, Times Square, New York City, Groups Feet Away

Supporters of Israel and Palestinian stood at loggerheads in Times Square as the groups conveyed with chants, songs, loudspeakers, and posters. Although the gathering was peaceful, the adversarial factions were positioned directly across from one another as NYPD officers looked on. The gathering succeeded in attracting attention from a busy Times Square, already bustling for the holiday shopping and tourist season. Visitors to the city stopped to stare at the gathering, many taking photos with their smartphones and digital cameras. The two groups were cordoned off with metal gates, with police attempting to keep foot traffic moving outside of the penned areas. While the Israeli section focused their support on the Israeli government's response to instigations, the Palestinian bloc appeared to embrace the broader message of statehood. Both groups vowed to keep up the public pressure in the days ahead.