Thousands protest Netanyahu after War Cabinet dissolved
Protestors lift banners and flags during an Israeli anti-government rally calling for early elections, in Jerusalem on June 17, 2024. (AFP Photo)
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu dissolved the War Cabinet on Monday after the Israeli army announced a tactical halt to military activities in the Gaza Strip, prompting Netanyahu’s opponents to take to the streets.
Pressure on the government continues in Israel for early elections and the return of prisoners from the Gaza Strip. In addition to West Jerusalem, which hosted the main demonstration, protests were organized in other cities such as the capital Tel Aviv, Haifa and Kfar Saba.
Thousands of people gathered in front of the Israeli parliament in the capital Tel Aviv, calling for early elections and demanding the government to reach an agreement with Hamas for the release of prisoners in the Gaza Strip.
Protesters carrying Israeli flags carried banners, posters, and placards against Prime Minister Netanyahu and politicians in his government, and made speeches criticizing the government on a platform set up in the area.
The protesters chanted “No, we will not accept a reckless government” and “No to fascism”. The demonstrators carried banners reading “Accept the prisoner swap deal”, “elections now”, and “you are the prime minister, you are a criminal”.
In West Jerusalem, another group gathered in front of the residence of President Isaac Herzog, and after a protest there, marched to the main demonstration in front of the parliament.
