Thousands gather in Tel Aviv to protest Netanyahu’s updated Gaza strategy, calling for the release of hostages

Thousands of demonstrators flooded the streets of Tel Aviv on Saturday night to reject Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s strategy to intensify the nearly two-year Gaza conflict, calling for an immediate cessation of the offensive and the release of hostages.

The day before, the prime minister’s office announced that the security cabinet, a select group of high-ranking ministers, had resolved to capture Gaza City, intensifying military actions in the ravaged Palestinian area despite significant public dissent and cautions from the military that the action could put the hostages at risk.

Public opinion surveys indicate that a significant majority of Israelis support a prompt conclusion to the conflict to ensure the liberation of the remaining 50 captives held by militants in Gaza. Israeli officials estimate that around 20 hostages remain alive.

The Israeli government has encountered significant criticism both locally and internationally, including from several of its closest European partners, following the declaration that the military would broaden the conflict. The complete cabinet is anticipated to grant its approval by Sunday.

The majority of the hostages released to date resulted from diplomatic discussions. Discussions aimed at a ceasefire that might have led to additional hostage releases fell apart in July. Approximately 1,200 people, mostly Israelis, were killed while 251 were captured and taken into Gaza during Hamas’ assault on Israel on October 7, 2023. Over 400 Israeli troops have lost their lives in Gaza since that time.

Demonstrators waved Israeli flags and held signs displaying pictures of hostages. Others carried signs expressing anger towards the government or calling on Trump to intervene and prevent Netanyahu from proceeding with plans to intensify the conflict

Far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich, who supports continuing the conflict, made a statement on Saturday denouncing Netanyahu and advocating for the annexation of significant portions of Gaza.

Netanyahu stated in a Fox News interview that was broadcast on Thursday that the military aimed to gain control of all of Gaza but that Israel did not desire to retain the area.
The prime minister’s office announced early Friday that the military would seize Gaza City, but it did not clearly state whether Israeli forces would capture the entire enclave