Mass protest in Tel Aviv over Netanyahu’s Gaza plan
Organizers say Saturday’s demonstration drew over 100,000 protesters (Photo: Getty Images)
On Saturday evening, thousands of protesters took to the streets of Tel Aviv to oppose Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to occupy Gaza, reports Reuters.
A day earlier, the prime minister’s office announced that the security cabinet had decided to seize Gaza City, expanding military operations in the devastated Palestinian territory.
The decision was made despite broad public opposition and military warnings that such a move could endanger the lives of hostages.
In particular, the protesters oppose Netanyahu’s plan, demanding an immediate end to the campaign and the release of hostages.
Public opinion polls show that the overwhelming majority of Israelis support an immediate end to the war to secure the release of the remaining 50 hostages held in Gaza. Israeli officials believe around 20 of them are still alive.
Reuters notes that the Israeli government has faced sharp criticism both domestically and abroad, including from European allies, over the plan.
The full cabinet is expected to give its approval as early as Sunday, August 10.
Reuters also reported that most freed hostages so far were released as a result of diplomatic negotiations. However, ceasefire talks that could have led to the release of more hostages collapsed in July.
According to the agency, Tel Aviv regularly sees rallies urging the government to reach a ceasefire agreement and free hostages from Hamas. Organizers said Saturday’s demonstration drew more than 100,000 protesters.
