Thousands of people protested across Israel to demand a cease-fire in Gaza
Last Updated on September 3, 2024 6:56 am
After the recovery of the bodies of six hostages held by Hamas, unprecedented protests have begun across Israel demanding a ceasefire. On Sunday night, millions of Israelis took to the streets to protest in several cities, including the capital, Tel Aviv.
The Israeli army recovered the bodies of 6 hostages in a tunnel under Rafah city in Gaza on Sunday. A US citizen was also in it.
Demonstrators complain that Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is neglecting to make a deal for the release of hostages. Protests have also led to calls for Netanyahu’s resignation as cease-fire talks have repeatedly collapsed.
Meanwhile, Histadrut, one of Israel’s largest labor unions, has called for a nationwide strike on Monday to demand a quick ceasefire.
BBC reported that initially the protest was peaceful, but in the end, the protesters broke the police barricade and blocked the road. There have also been incidents of lathicharge, use of water cannons and hurling of sound grenades in clashes with the police. At least 500,000 Israeli citizens are believed to have participated in the protest.
Demonstrators displayed Israeli flags, various festoons and satirical cartoons of Netanyahu. Many took part in the protest wearing Netanyahu masks with bloodied hands.
Al Jazeera, on the other hand, says Sunday night’s protests were the biggest since the Gaza war began nearly 11 months ago.
Many of the protesters included relatives of Hamas hostages. They demanded an immediate ceasefire and the release of the hostages.
In addition to killing 1,200 Israelis in a sudden attack on October 7, the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas captured about 250 Israelis and foreign citizens in Gaza.
Several hostages have been returned and rescued, but many are still being held by Hamas. Israel and its ally the United States are under pressure for their withdrawal and a ceasefire.
Sources: Al Jazeera, BBC