In a significant display of dissent, thousands of protesters have flooded the streets of Israel, voicing their opposition to the government's recent decision to intensify military operations in Gaza. On Friday, Israel's security cabinet approved a set of five principles aimed at concluding the ongoing war, which includes the controversial move of 'taking security control' over the Gaza Strip. The Israeli military has indicated plans to prepare for a takeover of Gaza City, raising concerns among citizens.
A focal point of the protests is the fear for the safety of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Among the demonstrators are family members of the 50 hostages, 20 of whom are still believed to be alive. These families are urging the government to prioritize the release of hostages, expressing concern that the military expansion jeopardizes their lives. A spokesperson for the hostages' families stated on social media platform X that expanding the fighting "endangers the hostages and the soldiers," reflecting the overwhelming sentiment that the Israeli public is unwilling to risk their lives.
During a rally in Jerusalem on Saturday, protester Shakha articulated the urgent need to end the war, stating, "We want the war to end because our hostages are dying there, and we need them all to be home now." He emphasized that if stopping the war is necessary for the safety of the hostages, then it must be done. Additionally, former soldier Max Kresch, who previously served during the conflict, announced his refusal to continue in what he termed Netanyahu's "political war," which he believes endangers both hostages and innocent Palestinians.
The protests have sparked significant debate among military personnel, with some soldiers calling for a refusal to serve in the expanded military operations. Reports indicate that over 350 soldiers have expressed similar sentiments during protests near the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) headquarters in Tel Aviv. In a particularly emotional appeal, the mother of one hostage has called for a general strike across Israel, a sentiment echoed by opposition leader Yair Lapid, who deemed it a justified response, although the main labor union has declined to support a strike.
Saturday night's demonstrations saw protesters blocking Tel Aviv's Ayalon Highway, igniting bonfires in a show of defiance. Israeli police reported the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of materials intended for setting fires on main roads, indicating the heightened tensions surrounding the protests.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting opposition not only from the public but also from military leaders. Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, the army's Chief of Staff, has reportedly cautioned Netanyahu that a full occupation of Gaza could pose significant risks to the hostages currently held captive. Recent polls suggest that a majority of Israelis favor negotiating with Hamas to secure the hostages' release and bring an end to the ongoing conflict.
In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu reiterated Israel's intent to occupy Gaza, stating, "We are not going to occupy Gaza - we are going to free Gaza from Hamas." He believes that this military strategy will aid in the release of hostages and ensure future security for Israel. The Israeli security cabinet's outlined principles for ending the conflict include disarming Hamas, returning all hostages, demilitarizing the Gaza Strip, and establishing an alternative civil administration.
A top United Nations official has raised alarms about the potential catastrophic consequences of a full military takeover of Gaza City, warning that up to one million Palestinians could be affected. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, with reports indicating that malnutrition-related deaths in Gaza have reached alarming numbers, including 217 fatalities and 100 children among them. The Hamas-run health ministry has highlighted that five individuals, including two children, died in a recent 24-hour span due to malnutrition.
International backlash has emerged following Israel's military escalation, with countries like the UK, France, and Canada condemning the actions. In a notable response, Germany has announced a halt to its military exports to Israel. As the United Nations Security Council convenes on Sunday to discuss the situation, there are growing calls for Israel to allow increased humanitarian aid into Gaza, a region where starvation and a humanitarian crisis are becoming increasingly dire.
As the military conflict continues to escalate, reports indicate that at least 59 individuals, including civilians, have died in the last 24 hours due to ongoing Israeli military operations. The situation remains critical as the world watches closely, urging for a resolution that prioritizes the safety of hostages and the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian population.
