Dozens of pro-Palestinian protesters caused chaos at two major airports in the United States on Wednesday, disrupting traffic during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year. At John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York City, demonstrators blocked a section of the Van Wyck Expressway, leading to significant traffic congestion. Carrying banners with messages such as “Free Palestine” and "Genocide then/Genocide now," the protesters formed a line across the highway, forcing vehicles to come to a standstill. The Port Authority Police Department reported that 26 people were arrested on charges of disorderly conduct and impeding vehicular traffic.

Meanwhile, on the west coast, pro-Palestinian activists blocked traffic on West Century Boulevard near the entrance to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The protesters used construction debris, road signs, tree branches, and blocks of concrete to obstruct the road. The Los Angeles Police Department stated that one police officer was thrown to the ground, and passersby in their vehicles were attacked by the demonstrators. A total of 36 people were arrested, mostly on charges of rioting and battery of a police officer.

Both incidents caused significant disruptions for travelers on one of the busiest travel days of the year. At JFK, the road closures resulted in traffic congestion leading into the airport, forcing some passengers to walk to the terminals with their luggage. The Port Authority Police Department dispatched two airport buses to offer rides to affected travelers. The road was eventually reopened just before midday.

Similarly, at LAX, Century Boulevard was shut down for approximately 30 minutes, causing delays for those trying to access the airport. However, other entrances to the airport remained accessible during the protest. The LAPD emphasized that the actions of the demonstrators were dangerous and would not be tolerated.

These protests are part of a broader wave of demonstrations that have been taking place across the United States since the Israel-Hamas war broke out in October. Pro-Palestinian activists have been voicing their opposition to the Biden administration's support of Israel's retaliatory campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of over 20,000 Palestinians. The US has faced criticism for vetoing a United Nations Security Council resolution and voting against a General Assembly resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza.

In addition to the airport protests, there have been numerous demonstrations on college campuses, at the base of the Statue of Liberty, and at Grand Central Terminal in New York City. Just a few days before the incidents in New York City and Los Angeles, pro-Palestinian activists organized a similar demonstration in Chicago, where roads leading to O'Hare International Airport were blocked.

The timing of these protests, coinciding with one of the busiest travel days of the year, has added to the frustration and inconvenience for travelers. December 27th traditionally sees a high volume of passengers, with over two million people expected to catch flights, according to TSA passenger volume data.

As tensions continue to escalate between Israel and Palestine, it is likely that these protests will persist, further impacting travel and drawing attention to the ongoing conflict.