After the Israeli security cabinet, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, approved a plan to seize control of Gaza City, widespread protests have erupted across Israel. This decision has been met with international criticism, and now, Israeli citizens are voicing their opposition. Thousands gathered in Tel Aviv and other cities on Saturday to protest the planned operation, calling for a hostage deal and a ceasefire.
Families of the hostages have strongly condemned the plan, warning of dire consequences for their captured loved ones. The United Nations has warned of ‘devastating consequences’ for both Palestinian civilians and Israeli hostages should a full military occupation proceed. The British Ambassador to Israel has echoed concerns, calling the plan ‘a very big mistake’.
This demonstration represents one of the most significant protests in recent times. Internal disagreements also exist, as the military had previously raised concerns about the plan to occupy Gaza, arguing it would endanger the hostages, create unnecessary risks for soldiers, and worsen the humanitarian situation. Public dissent has now become open and widespread.
Before the Saturday rallies, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum issued a statement, stating, ‘A red flag is waving over the government’s decision to sacrifice our loved ones.’ They urged those in power to, ‘reach a comprehensive hostage agreement, stop the war, bring back our loved ones, their time is up.’
The plan’s stated objectives include the disarmament of Hamas, the return of all hostages, the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, securing the area, and establishing an alternative civilian administration, excluding both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority.
The Israeli military stated they would ‘prepare to control Gaza City while providing humanitarian assistance to the civilian population outside the war zones.’