Protests against Netanyahu intensified as thousands of people gathered outside Israel’s Parliament in one of the largest demonstrations against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since the start of the war in Gaza. The pressure on Netanyahu has been mounting, both domestically and internationally, over Israel’s handling of the war, with many Israelis calling for his resignation.
Close allies like the U.S. have criticized the heavy civilian toll of the war and urged Israel to allow more aid into Gaza. Additionally, many Israelis are demanding that Netanyahu prioritize the release of hostages held by Hamas as part of a cease-fire deal. The protests in Jerusalem, expected to continue through Wednesday, coincided with in-person talks about a potential cease-fire in Cairo.
The discontent with Netanyahu’s government has been fueled by various issues, including a dispute over a bill to extend ultra-Orthodox Jews’ exemption from compulsory military service. This dispute has put Netanyahu’s right-wing governing coalition at stake, with the possibility of ultra-Orthodox lawmakers leaving the coalition if the exemption is not extended.
The ongoing protests against Netanyahu highlight the growing dissatisfaction among Israelis with his leadership, particularly in the midst of the war in Gaza. The situation remains tense as the calls for change and accountability continue to reverberate throughout the country.
