A substantial crowd of pro-Palestinian demonstrators amassed outside John F. Kennedy International Airport’s AirTrain Jamaica Station on Wednesday, prompting a travel alert and restricted access to sections of the airport. Activists said they organized the protest to coincide with an alleged 2 PM weapons shipment by Elbit Systems, an Israeli defense company.
Chanting slogans such as “Shut it down!” and “Globalize the Intifada!”, protesters occupied access points close to the tram entrance. They attracted a great deal of attention from both airport security and travelers. The protest is one in a series of national protests drawing attention to U.S. military support for Israel and the Gaza war.
Tensions flared during the protest as a bystander shouted for the protesters to “take off your masks,” illustrating increased tension between protesters and ordinary travelers who must travel through the crowded airport hub.
NOW: “Shut it down!” and “Globalize the Intifada!” Protesters chant outside JFK Tram in Queens.
Protesters are rallying at JFK Airport’s AirTrain Jamaica Station in response to allegations that the U.S. is shipping over 22,000 lbs of weapons to support Israel out of JFK this… pic.twitter.com/Krns2Vo5o9
— Oliya Scootercaster 🛴 (@ScooterCasterNY) July 9, 2025
Airport Officials Limit Access, Warn Travelers
To meet the crisis, airport officials released a formal travel advisory cautioning travelers of possible delays and limited access to JFK’s AirTrain service and immediate terminal areas. Airport officials permitted only ticketed travelers, authorized employees with valid identification, and individuals with official business—such as picking up or dropping off passengers—into crucial areas of the airport.
“Because of the potential for protest activity today that would impact airport operations and the need to ensure good order for airport customers, access to key areas of the airport, such as the AirTrain JFK at Jamaica Station, will be limited,” said the advisory.
Officials advised customers to plan in advance, arrive early, and expect delays, especially at AirTrain entrances and terminal entry points.
Latest in Wave of National Demonstrations
This is the most recent in a wave of pro-Palestinian protests in major US cities as tensions rise over US military aid to Israel. Organizers say their demonstrations aim to pressure the United States to halt arms shipments linked to the conflict.
