Ben Cohen, co-founder of the iconic ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s, was arrested on May 14, 2025, after disrupting a U.S. Senate hearing to protest American military aid to Israel and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The incident occurred during a session of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, where Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was testifying.
Protest and Arrest
Cohen, a longtime progressive activist, stood up during the hearing and shouted, “Congress kills poor kids in Gaza by buying bombs, and pays for it by kicking kids off Medicaid in the U.S.” He was swiftly removed from the chamber by Capitol Police, hands bound behind his back. He was charged with “crowding, obstructing, or incommoding,” a misdemeanor offense often applied in cases of civil disobedience in Washington, D.C.
Cohen was among seven individuals arrested during the protest, which aimed to draw attention to the U.S. government’s support for Israel amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
A History of Activism
Ben Cohen and his business partner Jerry Greenfield founded Ben & Jerry’s in 1978, building the company into a globally recognized brand known not only for its ice cream but also for its commitment to social justice causes. Cohen has a long history of activism, including previous arrests during protests advocating for campaign finance reform and opposing U.S. military actions.
In recent years, Cohen has been vocal in his criticism of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding military aid to Israel. He has also supported various progressive causes, including environmental protection, racial justice, and economic equality.
Implications and Public Reaction
Cohen’s arrest has sparked discussions about the role of corporate figures in political activism and the boundaries of protest within governmental settings. Supporters praise his willingness to leverage his platform for advocacy, while critics question the appropriateness of his methods.
The incident also highlights ongoing debates over U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts and the allocation of federal resources, particularly in the context of domestic social programs like Medicaid.
