Group of New York students, Within Our Lifetime, mobilizes pro-Palestinian activists to advocate for the end of Israel, sparking concerns of antisemitism.
In a recent incident in July, Nerdeen Kiswani and her pro-Palestinian protest group, Within Our Lifetime, caused a disruption at Grand Central Terminal in New York City without even entering the main hall. Through a flier posted online, Kiswani called on her followers to gather at the iconic clock in the station, resulting in the police barricading the area and shutting it down to commuters and tourists. This action led to a chaotic scene with helicopters and a drone circling overhead.
Nerdeen Kiswani, a 30-year-old Palestinian American with a law degree, took the protest outside where she addressed the crowd about the U.S.-funded Israeli genocide in Gaza. The demonstration attracted attention with honking traffic, police in riot gear, and pro-Israel counterprotesters using air horns to disrupt the event. Kiswani and her supporters chanted slogans against Zionism and the state of Israel, drawing onlookers and media coverage.
Within Our Lifetime, founded in 2015, is known for its disruptive tactics in New York City. The group has previously shut down bridges and caused traffic jams in Midtown. Their chants and actions have sometimes sparked controversy, such as when they protested outside an exhibition honoring victims of a Hamas attack on Israel, leading to criticism even from the White House. Some protesters affiliated with Kiswani have been seen burning Israeli flags and displaying flags of Hamas and Hezbollah.
The protests led by Nerdeen Kiswani and Within Our Lifetime have become a familiar sight in New York City, drawing attention to the Palestinian cause and raising awareness about the conflict in the Middle East. Their actions have sparked debate and controversy, reflecting the deep divisions and strong emotions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Source: The NY Times
