When Netanyahu addressed the United Nations, dozens of delegations walked out rather than remain in the chamber. Outside the United Nations, more than 100 protesters were arrested during a sit-in organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, calling for an end to U.S. support for Israel.
Among those arrested were actors Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder, who joined others in peacefully protesting policies and actions they believe have caused devastating suffering in Gaza.
These events raise a profound question: what does international justice mean if powerful leaders can defend military actions at the United Nations while peaceful protesters are arrested for demanding an end to violence?
The United Nations was created to advance peace, human rights and human dignity. Governments must be held accountable when civilian lives are endangered, regardless of their power or political influence.
The peaceful actions of Jewish Voice for Peace, Susan Sarandon, Hannah Einbinder and others demonstrate the importance of dissent in defense of human rights.
No government should be above international law, and no human life should be valued less than another. The world must protect peaceful protest, demand accountability and insist that Palestinian, Israeli and every human life has equal value. Peace requires courage, compassion and justice.
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