Pro-Palestinian protesters were captured on video marching towards Times Square, New York City as the iconic New Year’s Eve celebration was underway. The large group was seen holding Palestine flags and moving towards the plaza where the ball drop typically takes place. This event occurred amid heightened tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict.
To ensure the safety of the event attendees, New York police deployed drones over Times Square to identify potential threats. Officers on the ground were able to monitor the drone footage via smartphones, according to Assistant Police Commissioner Kaz Daughtry.
Despite the security concerns, thousands of revelers gathered at Times Square to ring in the new year with the traditional crystal-clad ball drop. Many arrived early in the morning to secure a good spot and waited for musical performances by artists such as Megan Thee Stallion and LL Cool J before the final countdown.
Nadja Sjostrom, a visitor from Stockholm, Sweden, expressed excitement about celebrating the New Year in Times Square for the first time. Similarly, Brooklyn resident Markus Washington described the experience as “awesome,” despite the cold weather. Antonio Ruz, who flew from Granada, Spain, also expressed his excitement, calling it a “once in a lifetime” moment.
The security measures taken by the New York Police Department were successful in ensuring the safety of attendees at the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration amid the tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict.