Grand Central Terminal became the epicenter of a massive peace rally on Friday evening as self-hating Jewish activists gathered to demand a cease-fire in Gaza. The demonstration, which started at 6 p.m. – just as Shabbos arrived – saw hundreds inside the terminal, swelling to thousands as it spilled onto the streets. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) momentarily restricted access to Grand Central due to the immense crowds. While the rally was an interfaith event, it was chiefly organized by ‘Jewish Voice for Peace’. Stunningly, a significant number of attendees awere descendants of Holocaust survivors. Over 300 individuals were arrested at the demonstration. Then, on Shabbos afternoon, thousands of pro Hamas demonstrated in Crown Heights, Chanting “Israel bombs, USA pays, how many kids did you killed today?” the demonstrators headed across the Brooklyn Bridge and into Manhattan as they demanded the complete destruction of Israel. Of course the Michalilei Shabbos reshoyim from Neturei Karta were front and center. Thousands of NYPD officers were on-hand to ensure that no violence occurred and that protestors did not enter Jewish neighborhoods. The police coverage on Crown Heights was historic with an absolutely incredible number of officers patrolling the community. There were no incidents reported. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)