‘Fund people, not bombs’: inside the US movement against war in Iran

Key Points:

• Dozens of protesters, including notable figures like Chelsea Manning and Hannah Einbinder, demonstrated outside Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s Manhattan office opposing US arms shipments to Israel amid ongoing Middle East conflicts.
• Nearly 100 protesters were arrested after blocking traffic, as part of coordinated actions by groups such as Jewish Voice for Peace calling on senators to support resolutions rejecting military aid to Israel.
• The protests reflect widespread public disapproval of the US war approach, with polling showing roughly half of Americans oppose the conflict and many doubting the administration’s plan for resolution.
• Activists link opposition to war funding with broader concerns over domestic issues like healthcare, childcare, and civil rights, criticizing government spending priorities.
• Organizers aim to pressure Democratic leaders ahead of upcoming Congressional votes on war powers and funding, warning that continued support for military aid risks electoral losses and alienating key voter groups.