Tens of thousands of protesters gathered outside the Israeli parliament in Jerusalem for a massive anti-government demonstration. The protesters demanded a ceasefire deal and the release of Israeli captives held by Hamas in Gaza. They claimed that the rally was the largest since Israel launched a war on Gaza in October.
A truce in November had previously led to the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Talks on a new ceasefire and captive exchange were expected to start in Cairo. The protesters vowed to continue their demonstration for several days, with many sleeping in tents in the city.
Opposition leader, Benny Gantz, criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for destroying Israel’s relations with the US and leaving the captives to their fate. Meanwhile, thousands also took to the streets in Tel Aviv in support of the protest.
Despite US pressure, Netanyahu vowed to continue a military ground offensive in Rafah, a southern Gaza city. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza has resulted in intense political implications and a surge in public dissent.
Overall, the protest shed light on the deep-seated issues surrounding the Israeli government’s handling of the conflict, as well as the demands of the protesters for peace and the release of captives. The demonstration marked a significant moment in Israeli politics and the continuing tensions in the Middle East.
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