Demonstrators advocating for Palestine disrupted the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City on Thursday, prompting police intervention to maintain the parade's flow. Carrying signs and banners with messages such as "Free Palestine" and "Don’t celebrate genocide!", the protesters attempted to obstruct the parade route along Sixth Avenue, near West 55th Street, as the iconic Ronald McDonald balloon approached.

NYPD officers responded swiftly, detaining several individuals who refused to clear the path. Videos captured the scene as officers escorted some protesters away, while others who resisted were restrained and handcuffed. Chants of "Free Palestine!" mixed with boos from parade spectators as the demonstration was dispersed.

Demonstrators obstruct the parade route during the 98th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. (Reuters/Brendan McDermid)

Police engage with protesters during the parade. (Reuters/Brendan McDermid)

This incident follows similar protests during last year's parade, where demonstrators chanted pro-Palestinian slogans and engaged in disruptive actions. Mayor Eric Adams had preemptively cautioned against such disruptions in a press conference the day before Thanksgiving.

Police remove protesters from the parade route. (Reuters/Brendan McDermid)

A protester is detained by police. (Reuters/Brendan McDermid)

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began with Hamas's incursion into Israel in October 2023, continues to fuel tensions and inspire protests worldwide. The conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life and a protracted humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.

This report incorporates information from the Associated Press.