Gaza: Israeli citizens want Netanyahu gone

Thousands of demonstrators flooded the streets of several Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Caesarea, Raanana, and Herzliya, on Saturday, clamoring for the release of all hostages held in Gaza and demanding the resignation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In Tel Aviv’s Kaplan Street, protesters gathered, advocating for an immediate general election alongside the release of hostages. Tensions rose as police attempted to manage the crowd at the Begin Gate, an entry point to the Kirya military headquarters.

Banners emblazoned with messages like “No one leaves! We will march to Jerusalem and remain there until the government disbands” underscored the fervor of the demonstrators.

At Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, survivors of captivity under Hamas spoke out, urging swift action from Israeli authorities to secure the release of those still held in Gaza. Aviva Siegel, a former hostage whose husband remains captive, implored authorities to prioritize efforts to bring back loved ones held by militant groups.

The momentum of the protests continued into the night, with many supporters of the hostage rally marching through Tel Aviv’s streets.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum announced plans to relocate the gathering to Jerusalem, positioning themselves outside the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, in the coming week.

In Caesarea, protesters circumvented police barricades to approach Netanyahu’s residence, chanting slogans condemning what they perceived as failures and abandonment by the government. Phrases like “There is no forgiveness for the angel of destruction” echoed through the coastal city.

The demonstrations highlight the deep-seated concerns within Israeli society regarding the plight of hostages in Gaza and dissatisfaction with the current political leadership, setting the stage for potentially significant developments in the days ahead.