Israelis demand hostage swap and Netanyahu ousting

Thousands of Israelis protest in Tel Aviv, Haifa, Caesarea, Netanya, Rehovot, and other cities, urging a hostage swap with Palestinian groups and Netanyahu’s government ouster

Thousands of Israelis took to the streets across several cities, including Tel Aviv and Haifa, on Saturday, demanding a hostage swap deal with Palestinian resistance groups, the ousting of Netanyahu’s government, and early elections.

Protesters congregated at Kaplan Square in central Tel Aviv, advocating for an immediate deal and the resignation of Netanyahu’s government, as reported by the Israeli Broadcasting Authority.

Signs reading “It’s time to replace Netanyahu” were prominently displayed.

The demonstrators urged a return to negotiations and emphasized the urgency of reaching an agreement with Palestinian factions.

Around 2,000 individuals also rallied in front of Netanyahu’s residence in Caesarea, northern Israel, demanding government action on a hostage swap.

In cities like Haifa, Netanya, and Rehovot, as well as numerous other locations, thousands more joined demonstrations calling for the release of captives in Gaza and the dissolution of Netanyahu’s government, according to the daily.

Israel faces accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice, which has mandated measures to prevent further civilian harm and ensure humanitarian aid reaches Gaza’s inhabitants.

Despite a U.N. Security Council resolution urging an immediate cease-fire, Israel continued its aggressive campaign in Gaza. Since October 7, the conflict has claimed the lives of nearly 35,400 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, with over 79,300 others sustaining injuries.

Source: Newsroom