Hannah Einbinder was arrested Thursday during a protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s appearance, becoming one of several demonstrators detained outside an event in Los Angeles.
Einbinder, known for her role on “Hacks,” posted on her Instagram story afterward, urging her followers to focus on “the devastating genocidal war Israel is waging against the people of Palestine.” She was protesting alongside Sarah Sherman, Susan Sarandon, and others who gathered to voice opposition to Netanyahu’s visit.
Sources confirmed Einbinder’s arrest but did not specify how long she was detained or whether she was charged. The actress’s social media post included a call for awareness, emphasizing what she described as “the devastating genocidal war.” She did not comment further on her detention.
The protest took place outside the venue where Netanyahu was scheduled to speak. Local police confirmed they responded to the scene but did not release details about the number of arrests or the nature of the charges. Witnesses said demonstrators shouted slogans and held signs condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza.
This is not the first time Einbinder has spoken out on political issues. She has publicly criticized Israeli policies before but has not previously been detained during protests. Her arrest drew immediate attention on social media, where fans and fellow performers expressed support.
Sherman, who was also detained, posted a photo of herself in handcuffs with a caption that read, “Standing up for what’s right.” Sarandon, who was among the protesters, did not comment publicly but was seen leaving the scene shortly after police moved in.
The incident occurs amid a rising number of protests worldwide against Israeli military actions in Gaza. The conflict has escalated in recent weeks, with casualties mounting on both sides. Human rights organizations have accused Israel of committing war crimes, a claim denied by the Israeli government.
The protest coincided with a broader wave of activism among entertainers and public figures. Several artists have called for a ceasefire and condemned what they describe as war crimes committed by Israeli forces. The protest was organized by a coalition of activists opposed to Netanyahu’s visit and the ongoing military campaign.
Einbinder’s representatives confirmed her arrest but did not provide additional details. Her social media post was her only public comment, urging followers to focus on the “devastating war” in Gaza. She wrote, “Please pay attention to what’s happening. It’s not enough to just watch from afar.”
Activists involved in the demonstration said police acted swiftly to disperse the crowd, with some protesters detained without clear charges. The incident raises questions about the handling of protests related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Los Angeles, where tensions over the issue have increased in recent months.
No official statement from law enforcement has been issued about the arrests. The police department has previously said they respond to protests with the aim of maintaining order but did not specify how many arrests were made Thursday.
Einbinder’s arrest comes amid a broader debate over free speech and protest rights in the United States. The actress has not publicly spoken about her legal situation beyond her Instagram post. Her supporters have called her action a stand against what they see as oppressive policies.
The incident underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding Netanyahu’s visit and the larger conflict in Gaza. As protests continue around the world, the involvement of celebrities like Einbinder keeps the spotlight on the issue, even as authorities seek to control the demonstrations.
According to Variety.