Pro-Palestinian protesters arrested during demonstration close to Rockefeller Center tree lighting

Despite the protests being expected, the New York Police Department still encouraged people to come out and enjoy the tree lighting.

By Charlotte Hazard

Published: November 30, 2023 2:33pm

Seven pro-Palestinian demonstrators were arrested Wednesday night near the annual lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York City.

An estimated 500 such demonstrators were protesting in connection to the Israel-Hamas war, amid the larger crown for the event. And when the demonstration moved too close the tree they were met by barricades and police officers who arrested them.

The ensuing scuffle resulted in the arrest of six adults and one juvenile, according to ABC 7.

"We allow people to exercise their first amendment, but by no means do we allow anyone to come out here to do hate, crime or assault," NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell said, according to the outlet.