Israeli protesters demand cease-fire, Netanyahu’s resignation
Protests erupt across Israel demanding a cease-fire, prisoner exchange and the resignation of Netanyahu’s government
Thousands of Israelis staged protests across the country demanding a cease-fire, prisoner exchange and the resignation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.
In Israel, the weekly Saturday protests against the Netanyahu government continued with strong participation.
Demonstrators across Israel continue to demand the release of Israeli prisoners in Gaza and express their discontent with the Netanyahu government.
Tens of thousands of people protesting the government’s lack of interest in ending the conflict in Gaza and securing the release of prisoners are demanding the resignation of what they describe as the country’s most right-wing government and calling for early elections.
Protests occurred in Tel Aviv, Haifa, Beersheba, West Jerusalem and Caesarea, where Netanyahu resides.
Protesters gathered on Tiger Street in Tel Aviv, criticizing government policies and judicial regulations, with heavy police presence to prevent incidents.
Demonstrators carrying flags and banners made fiery speeches expressing their discontent with Netanyahu and his colleagues.
The relatives of prisoners held in Gaza also condemned the government’s stance in front of the Defense Ministry.
The protesters accused Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict despite a possible compromise and demanded the immediate repatriation of the prisoners.
As the demonstrations moved down Kaplan Street towards the government buildings, some clashes with the police were reported.
‘You are guilty, Netanyahu!’
The demonstrators gathered outside Netanyahu’s residence in Caesarea, reiterating their demands for change across the country and calling for his resignation.
The demonstrators chanted “You are in charge, you are guilty!” demanding the resignation of Netanyahu and early elections.
Thousands of people in West Jerusalem demanded the release of prisoners, while road blockades were organized across the country.
Netanyahu has been accused of politicizing the prisoner exchange in the face of Egyptian and Qatari cease-fire and exchange proposals.
Death toll rises
Despite international pressure, Israel has refused to act without making concessions to Hamas.
Hamas wants guarantees of a permanent cease-fire in exchange talks, while Israeli leaders have said they are prepared to strike southern Gaza despite objections.
Conflicting casualty figures emerge as tensions escalate over humanitarian concerns and legal challenges. Israel is facing charges of “genocide” at the International Court of Justice for the humanitarian catastrophe and destruction in the Gaza Strip, where more than 34,000 Palestinians, including over 24,000 women and children, have been killed in attacks since Oct. 7.
Source: AA
