Protests erupted across Israel as an increasingly vocal dissent against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to expand military operations in the Gaza Strip rapidly gains momentum. Following the Israeli security cabinet's recent approval of principles aimed at deepening military engagement, thousands took to the streets to voice their opposition, fearing that the government's strategy will jeopardize the lives of Israeli hostages currently held by Hamas.
During the protests, families of the 50 hostages in Gaza, 20 of whom are believed to be alive, expressed their urgent demands for the government to prioritize the hostages’ release. A representative for the families highlighted concerns regarding the expansion of conflict, asserting: “Expanding the fighting endangers the hostages and the soldiers—the people of Israel are not willing to risk them!"
Among the demonstrators was Shakha, who articulated a pressing plea for peace: “We want the war to end because our hostages are dying there, and we need them all to be home now.” Shakha emphasized the desperation felt by many in the community, calling for immediate action to halt the violence.
Adding to the dissent, former soldier Max Kresch declared his refusal to serve in the current military operations, criticizing them as a "political war" that endangers both the hostages and innocent civilians in Gaza. Reports state that over 350 soldiers stand with Kresch in this refusal, further igniting discussions surrounding military ethics and the protection of civilian lives amidst the conflict.
Protesters in Tel Aviv similarly rallied outside the Israel Defense Forces headquarters, urging soldiers to stand down from any plans for further militant escalation. One mother of a hostage went so far as to demand a general strike, although major labor unions have not yet expressed support.
Opposition to Netanyahu's plans is reportedly also growing within military circles. Israeli Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir voiced his concerns, indicating that a full occupation of Gaza would be dangerous and could exacerbate hostage situations.
Public opinion polls appear to reflect a significant desire among Israelis for negotiations over military action, with many favoring a deal with Hamas aimed at both securing hostages and finding an end to ongoing violence.
Netanyahu has attempted to reassure the public, stating that the intended occupation of Gaza is aimed at liberating the region from Hamas's influence. He insists, “We are not going to occupy Gaza—we are going to free Gaza from Hamas,” addressing concerns on social media as further protests unfolded.
The Israeli security cabinet's five-point plan for resolving the war includes disarming Hamas, returning hostages, and establishing a civil administration devoid of both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority. Meanwhile, the United Nations has sounded alarms over the potential humanitarian consequences of a full takeover of Gaza City, where nearly one million Palestinians reside.
International reaction has also ignited, with countries such as the UK, France, and Germany condemning Israel's plans. The United Nations Security Council is set to convene on Sunday to discuss the escalating situation, which has already claimed a staggering number of lives since the conflict reignited following Hamas's attacks on October 7, 2023. As the military offensive continues, reports cite upwards of 61,300 Palestinian casualties due to Israeli actions.
