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Thousands Rally in Manhattan Calling for ‘Global Intifada’: Understanding the Latest Wave of Pro-Palestinian Protests

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by

Lucy
in

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Key Takeaways

  • Thousands gathered in Manhattan on August 16, 2025, rallying behind the slogan “Global Intifada” amid escalating Israeli-Palestinian tensions.
  • The protests reflect a broader wave of activism demanding an end to violence and highlighting issues of media bias and international solidarity.
  • The term “Intifada” historically signifies Palestinian uprisings, now invoked globally to symbolize resistance against oppression.
  • Protests include symbolic actions targeting media institutions and emphasize diverse forms of resistance like sit-ins and digital campaigns.
  • Ongoing activism also involves calls for arms embargoes and discussions on Palestinian liberation strategies.

Table of Contents

The Latest Surge in Pro-Palestinian Activism: What Does the Call for a “Global Intifada” Mean?

What Sparked These Protests?

The Historical Context: What is an Intifada?

The Scope and Impact of the Protests

Personal Stories Amidst the Turmoil

What’s Next?

Why It Matters

The Latest Surge in Pro-Palestinian Activism: What Does the Call for a “Global Intifada” Mean?

On August 16, 2025, thousands of demonstrators flooded Manhattan, New York City, chanting slogans and waving Palestinian flags, rallying behind the slogan “Global Intifada.” This phrase, evocative of historic Palestinian uprisings, is currently under pending violence designation scrutiny, reflecting the heightened tensions surrounding the protests.[5]

What Sparked These Protests?

The demonstrations emerge amid escalating violence involving Israel and Palestine, with protesters demanding an end to what they describe as the genocide and starvation of Gaza. This rally is part of a broader wave of activism, including the “Stop Starving Gaza” protests, which attracted tens of thousands in New York City earlier this month[2][1]. Participants accuse various institutions, including media outlets like The New York Times, of biased coverage favoring Israel[2].

The Historical Context: What is an Intifada?

Intifada literally means “uprising” or “shaking off” in Arabic. Historically, it refers to two major Palestinian uprisings against Israeli control, in the late 1980s and early 2000s. These were grassroots movements characterized by popular resistance, sometimes involving violent and nonviolent tactics against occupation[1]. The term “Global Intifada” in these protests signals a call for international solidarity and resistance against colonialism and oppression modeled after these uprisings.

The Scope and Impact of the Protests

– The Manhattan march drew a diverse coalition of leftist and pro-Palestinian groups united under banners such as “Globalize Intifada” and calls to honor Palestinian martyrs[1].

– Some organizers link this movement with broader anti-colonial and anti-capitalist struggles, referencing apartheid frameworks analogous to those historically identified in South Africa[1].

– Protests have centered not only on streets but also symbolically targeted institutions like The New York Times headquarters, critiquing media narratives and the role of US politics in the conflict[2].

Personal Stories Amidst the Turmoil

Amid the protests, life’s milestones still proceed. A Queens couple decided to hold their wedding ceremony at the New York Public Library despite being surrounded by a large anti-Israel protest. Their story highlights the contrast between personal joy and political unrest[3].

What’s Next?

Ongoing activism includes calls for arms embargoes in Canada and virtual panels discussing Palestinian liberation strategies[4]. Protesters emphasize diverse forms of resistance including sit-ins, fundraisers, and digital campaigns.

Why It Matters

These protests are not isolated incidents but part of a sustained global movement drawing attention to the Palestinian cause through both symbolic and direct actions. The invocation of the “Global Intifada” name revives a powerful emblem of resistance and challenges observers worldwide to reckon with complex issues of occupation, media representation, and international solidarity[1][5].

FAQ

What does the call for a “Global Intifada” signify?

The call for a “Global Intifada” signifies a widespread movement calling for international solidarity and resistance against occupation and oppression. It draws inspiration from past Palestinian uprisings and aims to galvanize global support for Palestinian rights and liberation.

Are these protests peaceful?

While some protests involve symbolic actions and demonstrations, there have been concerns about potential violence, as the phrase “Global Intifada” is being scrutinized for pending violence designation. Participants generally emphasize nonviolent resistance, but tensions can vary.

What is the significance of targeting media outlets like The New York Times?

Protesters critique media narratives and the role of US politics in shaping public perception. By targeting outlets like The New York Times, they aim to challenge biased coverage and promote a more balanced portrayal of the Palestinian struggle.

Sources