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Pro-Palestinian protester arrested after disrupting NYC subway
UNION SQUARE, Manhattan (PIX11) --- Police arrested a pro-Palestinian protester for yelling, “Raise your hand if you’re a Zionist,” on a crowded train in the Union Square subway station earlier this month, police said.
Anas Saleh, 24, turned himself in Wednesday morning and was charged with attempted coercion, according to the NYPD. The Staten Island man was given a desk appearance ticket and is due back in court Monday, sources said.
The incident happened on the No. 5 train when a group of pro-Palestinian protesters took over the No. 5 subway at around 8:10 p.m. on June 10, police said.
Many of the protesters were clad in masks and scarves before the suspect in sunglasses yelled, “Raise your hand if you’re a Zionist” and “This is your chance to get out,” according to authorities.
When the riders ignored his request, the man said, “Ok, no Zionists. We’re good,” a video showed.
On the same day of the subway incident, Within Our Lifetime, a pro-Palestinian organization, rallied on New York City streets, and subways, and shut down the Nova exhibit on Wall Street. The group called it a “day of rage,” according to its post on X.
Three of the protesters were arrested for disorderly conduct and fare evasion, police said. They were given summonses.
“The Manhattan DA’s office and NYPD have been actively investigating this incident since it occurred. We encourage anyone with additional information to call 212-335-9040,” said a spokesperson for the district attorney's office.