Tel Aviv, Israel – Protests erupted in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem on Saturday as Israel’s military prepares for a potential expansion of its operations in Gaza, despite warnings from military officials that a full takeover could jeopardize the lives of hostages held by Hamas. Demonstrations reflect growing divisions within Israel regarding the ongoing conflict and the future of Gaza.
The protests come as the conflict, initiated by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, continues to escalate. During that attack, approximately 240 Israelis and foreign nationals were taken hostage and transported to Gaza. As of Saturday, over 400 Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza since the ground offensive began, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Demonstrators displayed Israeli flags and carried images of the hostages, appealing for their safe return. A meaningful portion of the protest focused on criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, wiht some participants urging former U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene. A smaller contingent of protesters also held signs acknowledging the more than 61,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza, as reported by the Gaza Health Ministry, with at least 39 deaths recorded in the past 24 hours.
The escalating conflict is fueled by differing viewpoints within Netanyahu’s governing coalition. Far-right ministers, including Bezalel Smotrich, advocate for the annexation of substantial portions of Gaza. Smotrich publicly criticized Netanyahu on Saturday, reiterating his support for continued military action and territorial expansion. This stance contrasts with warnings from the IDF, which has cautioned that a complete takeover of Gaza could endanger the hostages.
Netanyahu, in a recent interview with Fox news that aired on Thursday, stated the military’s intention to assume control of all Gaza, but also asserted Israel’s lack of desire to permanently occupy the territory. A statement released by the Prime Minister’s office on Friday announced plans to seize Gaza City,but stopped short of confirming a full-scale territorial takeover.
The potential for a wider conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza are drawing international concern. Aid organizations, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), have repeatedly warned of catastrophic conditions for civilians in Gaza, particularly in Rafah, where over a million displaced Palestinians are sheltering. The Kerem Shalom crossing, a key entry point for humanitarian aid, has faced intermittent closures due to security concerns.
Tal, a 55-year-old high school teacher participating in the Tel Aviv rally, expressed opposition to expanding the war, stating it would lead to further casualties among both soldiers and hostages. They advocated for a complete military withdrawal,asserting,”We don’t have anything to do there. It’s not ours.”
Background: The current conflict is rooted in decades of Israeli-Palestinian tensions, including the ongoing Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, the blockade of Gaza, and disputes over Jerusalem. Hamas, designated as a terrorist association by Israel, the United States, and the European Union, has controlled Gaza since 2007. Previous conflicts between Israel and Hamas have resulted in significant casualties and destruction on both sides.The October 7th attack marked a significant escalation, prompting a large-scale military response from Israel.
