Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan faced disruptions as the main concourse was closed to travelers due to planned anti-Israel protests. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) issued a statement informing the public about access restrictions in the terminal area, advising travelers to follow guidance from MTA personnel or police and to use TrainTime for departure track confirmation.
Dozens of police officers were deployed inside the station, blocking off many entrances with metal fencing. MTA officials were on-site assisting confused riders, ensuring minimal impact on train schedules.
Access was limited at specific entrances such as the 1 Vanderbilt entrance, the Lexington Passage, and Graybar Passageway. Commuters were directed to use alternative entrances like the Vanderbilt and 42nd Street entrance and specific subway entrances to reach the terminal.
The Long Island Rail Road and Metro North advised commuters to allow extra travel time to navigate the disruptions caused by the protest. The demonstration, named ‘Flood New York for Gaza,’ was organized by the activist group Within in Our Lifetime and attracted around 250 participants by the start time.
Organizers boasted about the preemptive shutdown of Grand Central Terminal, claiming to have caused fear among authorities. The NYPD had reportedly set up checkpoints and blocked entrances in anticipation of the protest. A pro-Israel demonstration was also anticipated at the transit hub, with police prepared to make arrests if necessary.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict, with protests and counter-protests becoming more frequent in public spaces like Grand Central Terminal.
