A large group of protesters shut down both directions of the I-40 Memphis/Arkansas bridge over the weekend.
Shortly after 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 3, a group of about 300 pro-Palestinian protesters halted traffic on the Hernando Desoto Bridge that carries I-40 over the Mississippi River in Memphis, Tennessee.
Developing situation along the I-40 bridge near Memphis. Protesters have blocked all lanes, east and westbound. Law enforcement is on the scene. Avoid the area if possible. More updates coming as information becomes available. pic.twitter.com/TSurEjSC2o
— Arkansas Department of Transportation (@myARDOT) February 3, 2024
WMC reports that the protesters first marched through downtown Memphis, then took the demonstration to the I-40 bridge, blocking traffic.
The protest halted traffic on the bridge for more than an hour.
The I-40 bridge shutdown occurred while the I-55 Mississippi Bridge was closed for construction.
Organizer Jena Abuirshaid told Fox13, “We stopped commerce and we sent our message out. I feel like we have forced people to listen to us, even if it’s just the regular civilian that’s passing the road.”
Memphis Police say that no one was arrested.