Hundreds in Israel protest, demand hostage exchange and early elections

Hundreds of people across Israel are protesting under the slogan “Day of Resistance,” demanding a prisoner exchange agreement for the return of hostages from Gaza and calling for early elections.

According to Israeli media reports, anti-government groups organized the protests to criticize Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his administration.

Protesters in Tel Aviv and other cities began blocking roads and intersections from early morning. Israeli police used force to disperse protesters and clear the roads.

Some groups organized convoys with vehicles displaying anti-government slogans and playing protest songs. Dozens of demonstrators gathered outside the homes of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz, other cabinet members and lawmakers.

In West Jerusalem, some protesters disrupted tram services by staging a sit-in on the tracks.

In a joint statement, protest groups accused the Israeli government of being indifferent to the hostages in Gaza and the demonstrators on the streets.

They announced plans to continue protests, marches, and actions throughout the day, calling for early elections.

In the evening, a demonstration is planned in front of the Histadrut Labor Federation headquarters in Tel Aviv, demanding a general strike. In West Jerusalem, protesters plan to march to Netanyahu’s residence.

Netanyahu faces criticism both domestically and internationally for refusing to negotiate a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas for political reasons.

Negotiations have been ongoing for a cease-fire in Gaza since Israel began its offensive on Oct. 7. Mediators recently proposed a cease-fire draft, which Hamas reportedly approved.

Mossad Director David Barnea visited Doha over the weekend for discussions. Israeli officials noted the parties are closer to an agreement than ever before.

Israel is expected to send a delegation to Cairo for further negotiations this week. CIA Director William Burns is also set to participate in talks in Qatar.

Background on Gaza conflict post-Oct. 7

On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas’ military wing, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, launched a large-scale attack on Israel, citing ongoing violations against Palestinians and holy sites, particularly the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Israel reported that 1,200 Israelis were killed and 5,132 injured in the attacks.

Since Oct. 7, Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip have killed at least 38,098 Palestinians, including 15,694 children and 10,279 women, and injured 87,705 others.

Thousands are still believed to be buried under the rubble, as hospitals and schools serving as shelters have been targeted, destroying civilian infrastructure.

The Israeli military has reported 679 soldier fatalities since the offensive began, including 323 killed during the ground invasion.

During a four-day humanitarian pause starting Nov. 24, which was later extended for three days, 81 Israeli and 240 Palestinian prisoners were exchanged. Israel has continued to detain thousands of Palestinians.

In the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, 570 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers since Oct. 7, 2023.