Demonstrators across Israel voice concerns about government plans to expand military operations in Gaza, fearing for the fate of hostages and innocents caught in the crossfire.
Intensifying Protests Erupt in Israel Against Gaza War Expansion
Intensifying Protests Erupt in Israel Against Gaza War Expansion
Thousands join rallies demanding end to military action and the safe return of hostages.
In a wave of growing dissent, thousands of protesters have flooded the streets of Israel, passionately opposing the government’s recent decision to escalate its military operations in Gaza. The Israeli security cabinet's approval of new principles aimed at exerting control over the Gaza Strip has ignited fears among protestors—particularly relatives of hostages held by Hamas—that this strategy endangers lives instead of saving them.
Amid the escalating protests, which have become a mainstay in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, demonstrators carried banners and rallied for the government to prioritize the release of the estimated 50 hostages still believed to be alive. A spokesperson for the families echoed widespread anxiety, stating, "Expanding the fighting endangers the hostages and the soldiers - the people of Israel are not willing to risk them!"
Among the crowds in Jerusalem was Max Kresch, a former combat soldier who declared he would no longer serve in what he termed "Netanyahu's political war," emphasizing that more than 350 soldiers have joined him in refusing to fight under the current leadership, arguing that their military actions exacerbate the suffering of both hostages and the Palestinian populace.
Onlookers have also noted the calls for a general strike, spearheaded by the mother of a hostage; however, Israel's main labor union has chosen not to back this initiative. During protests, attendees blocked major routes with bonfires, leading to arrests as law enforcement intervened.
Criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy is not limited to the streets; even military officials, including Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, have expressed concern, describing a full-scale occupation of Gaza as perilous and likely to jeopardize the lives of hostages.
Data from recent polls suggest a significant portion of the Israeli public advocates for negotiations with Hamas to secure the hostages' return and bring an end to the ongoing conflict. Despite facing international pressure, Netanyahu remains steadfast, dismissing accusations of risking lives and reiterating the government’s commitment to occupying Gaza "not to control but to liberate it from Hamas."
The UN has warned that a full military takeover could lead to catastrophic outcomes for civilians in Gaza, where humanitarian conditions are worsening alongside reports of malnutrition and starvation. Various nations, including Germany, have criticized Israel's military approaches and sought to halt arms sales, reflecting a growing unease among global leaders.
As demonstrations continue, the UN Security Council plans to convene to discuss Israel's military strategies and their humanitarian implications, while the number of civilian casualties continues to rise amid the escalating violence.
Amid the escalating protests, which have become a mainstay in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, demonstrators carried banners and rallied for the government to prioritize the release of the estimated 50 hostages still believed to be alive. A spokesperson for the families echoed widespread anxiety, stating, "Expanding the fighting endangers the hostages and the soldiers - the people of Israel are not willing to risk them!"
Among the crowds in Jerusalem was Max Kresch, a former combat soldier who declared he would no longer serve in what he termed "Netanyahu's political war," emphasizing that more than 350 soldiers have joined him in refusing to fight under the current leadership, arguing that their military actions exacerbate the suffering of both hostages and the Palestinian populace.
Onlookers have also noted the calls for a general strike, spearheaded by the mother of a hostage; however, Israel's main labor union has chosen not to back this initiative. During protests, attendees blocked major routes with bonfires, leading to arrests as law enforcement intervened.
Criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy is not limited to the streets; even military officials, including Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, have expressed concern, describing a full-scale occupation of Gaza as perilous and likely to jeopardize the lives of hostages.
Data from recent polls suggest a significant portion of the Israeli public advocates for negotiations with Hamas to secure the hostages' return and bring an end to the ongoing conflict. Despite facing international pressure, Netanyahu remains steadfast, dismissing accusations of risking lives and reiterating the government’s commitment to occupying Gaza "not to control but to liberate it from Hamas."
The UN has warned that a full military takeover could lead to catastrophic outcomes for civilians in Gaza, where humanitarian conditions are worsening alongside reports of malnutrition and starvation. Various nations, including Germany, have criticized Israel's military approaches and sought to halt arms sales, reflecting a growing unease among global leaders.
As demonstrations continue, the UN Security Council plans to convene to discuss Israel's military strategies and their humanitarian implications, while the number of civilian casualties continues to rise amid the escalating violence.
