Miami police detained several pro-Palestine demonstrators as they tried to obstruct the entrance to PortMiami, which was part of a nationwide movement demanding a ceasefire in Gaza. The protest unfolded at about 1 p.m. on Monday, near the Bayside Marketplace in downtown Miami, where more than 100 protesters gathered, chanting and holding signs in support of Palestine.

The protesters attempted to advance and block traffic, leading the Miami police, adorned in riot gear and supported by mounted units and motorcycles, to intervene. This response was bolstered by state troopers and armored vehicles. The standoff, capturing the intense moments of the protest, was documented from above by 7Skyforce as individuals were arrested and placed into a police van.

Some of the demonstrators were physically removed from the street by officers after attempting to lie down and block traffic leading to PortMiami. Following several such attempts, the police arrested seven individuals for obstructing traffic and failing to remain within the designated protest area, charging them with Obstructing Traffic and Breach of the Peace/unlawful assembly.

Despite some protesters not having direct ties to Palestine, their participation highlighted a broader base of support for the Palestinian cause. “We are here to inform South Florida that we support the Palestinian people, who deserve basic necessities like aid, water, and food. They deserve to enjoy these with their families, to have the opportunity to live, and to dream,” expressed Valentina Jadue, a protester.

This demonstration was part of a larger strategy to disrupt major economic centers, including airports and ports across the country, to press for a ceasefire in Gaza. The protest coincided with Tax Day in the U.S., linking the demonstrators’ opposition to the use of taxpayer dollars to fund the conflict in Israel.

Protester Libra Sankara highlighted alternative uses for these funds, suggesting they could be better spent on solving domestic issues such as the housing crisis, public education shortcomings, food accessibility, and improving transportation. "Since October 7, more of our tax dollars have been used. We argue this money could be more effectively used to tackle pressing domestic needs," Sankara stated.

The protesters also discussed potential resolutions to what they described as a genocide against the Palestinian people. As the event wound down, a group of individuals appeared at the corner of Biscayne and 2nd Street to voice their support for Israel, emphasizing coexistence and mutual rights to the land.

“We both live on the same land; we aren’t going anywhere. I will always defend my right to live peacefully in my homeland, and I will advocate for their rights as well,” mentioned Jesse Fromer, a supporter of Israel.

The demonstration at PortMiami is part of a larger narrative of global activism, where grassroots movements are playing an increasingly significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing policy on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This event not only spotlighted the local and international dimensions of the conflict but also sparked broader discussions on civic engagement, the right to protest, and how international policies intersect with local activism.