In a significant escalation of conflict, thousands of demonstrators are taking a stand against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government as it moves to expand military operations in Gaza. On Friday, the Israeli security cabinet approved a series of principles to end the war that includes plans to “take security control” over the Gaza Strip. The military has signaled preparations for taking control of Gaza City, raising concerns among activists and family members of the hostages still held in the region.
With approximately 50 hostages in Gaza, and around 20 believed alive, protesters are pleading with the government to prioritize their safe return. A spokesperson for families of hostages stated on social media, "Expanding the fighting endangers the hostages and the soldiers— the people of Israel are not willing to risk them!" Demonstrators, including former soldiers, voiced their discontent in cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. One protester, Shakha, emphasized the dire need for the war to end, remarking, "Our hostages are dying there, and we need them all to be home now."
Among the rallying crowds was Max Kresch, a former combat soldier now openly refusing to serve in what he termed "Netanyahu's political war," which he claims jeopardizes both hostages and innocent Palestinians. Reports suggest that over 350 soldiers are similarly refusing to engage in the expanded military offensive. In Tel Aviv, families are mobilizing further, calling for other soldiers to join their cause.
Public sentiment appears increasingly at odds with government actions. Polls indicate a majority of Israelis prefer negotiations with Hamas for the release of hostages, a perspective echoed in the dissenting opinions of military leaders. Army Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, reportedly advised against a full occupation of Gaza, comparing the move to "walking into a trap" that could further endanger hostages.
Despite public and military opposition, Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to a strategy he argues will ultimately assist in the release of hostages and ensure long-term security for Israel. He stated plans to dismantle Hamas while establishing a civil administration that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority. The international community, including the United Nations, has raised alarms about the catastrophic consequences a complete military takeover would have on civilians and hostages alike.
As protests continue, with a planned general strike from families of hostages, the situation remains tense. The UN Security Council is set to convene on Sunday to discuss the dire implications of Israel's plans. The conflict escalated following the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, which claimed the lives of about 1,200 people in Israel, resulting in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 61,300 have reportedly died due to Israeli military operations.
With approximately 50 hostages in Gaza, and around 20 believed alive, protesters are pleading with the government to prioritize their safe return. A spokesperson for families of hostages stated on social media, "Expanding the fighting endangers the hostages and the soldiers— the people of Israel are not willing to risk them!" Demonstrators, including former soldiers, voiced their discontent in cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. One protester, Shakha, emphasized the dire need for the war to end, remarking, "Our hostages are dying there, and we need them all to be home now."
Among the rallying crowds was Max Kresch, a former combat soldier now openly refusing to serve in what he termed "Netanyahu's political war," which he claims jeopardizes both hostages and innocent Palestinians. Reports suggest that over 350 soldiers are similarly refusing to engage in the expanded military offensive. In Tel Aviv, families are mobilizing further, calling for other soldiers to join their cause.
Public sentiment appears increasingly at odds with government actions. Polls indicate a majority of Israelis prefer negotiations with Hamas for the release of hostages, a perspective echoed in the dissenting opinions of military leaders. Army Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, reportedly advised against a full occupation of Gaza, comparing the move to "walking into a trap" that could further endanger hostages.
Despite public and military opposition, Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to a strategy he argues will ultimately assist in the release of hostages and ensure long-term security for Israel. He stated plans to dismantle Hamas while establishing a civil administration that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority. The international community, including the United Nations, has raised alarms about the catastrophic consequences a complete military takeover would have on civilians and hostages alike.
As protests continue, with a planned general strike from families of hostages, the situation remains tense. The UN Security Council is set to convene on Sunday to discuss the dire implications of Israel's plans. The conflict escalated following the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, which claimed the lives of about 1,200 people in Israel, resulting in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 61,300 have reportedly died due to Israeli military operations.
