Large-scale antigovernment protests are ongoing in Israel as the pressure mounts for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to secure a ceasefire deal in Gaza. This week saw some of the largest protests in Israel’s history, with an estimated 500,000 people gathering in Tel Aviv and other cities. The protests have been increasing in frequency since October, with a total of 1,240 demonstrations recorded by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, the majority of which are in response to the Israeli war on Gaza.
The protests have also been fueled by Netanyahu’s handling of the conflict, with many demanding early elections and criticizing the government’s response. More than 90 captives are still held in Gaza, prompting families to call for their release and blame Netanyahu for the ongoing crisis. A ceasefire deal in November last year briefly brought hope, but subsequent negotiations have stalled, leading to continued protests. Israel’s main labour union, Histadrut, recently called for a nationwide strike to pressure the government.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Hamas has indicated a willingness to release captives if Israel ends the war, withdraws from Gaza, and releases Palestinian prisoners. The situation remains tense, with both sides facing growing pressure from their respective populations. The protests highlight the deep divide and dissatisfaction within Israeli society over the government’s handling of the conflict and the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
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