On Sunday, over 100,000 people gathered in Jerusalem to protest against the government of Benjamin Netanyahu. This is the largest mobilization against Netanyahu since the October 7 attacks from Gaza and marks the beginning of a “national week of protest” called by the opposition.
The main march was accompanied by smaller demonstrations throughout the city, with the goal of setting up a “tent city” in front of the Israeli Parliament to demand early elections. The participation of families of hostages kidnapped in Gaza who see Netanyahu as an obstacle to an exchange agreement is a significant development in the protest. They have moved from a square in Tel Aviv to rally against the Prime Minister. Chants demanding elections and criticizing Netanyahu were heard during the march, with leaders of opposition parties participating as well.
Riot police were deployed and clashes occurred between protesters and police forces. Yair Lapid, the opposition leader, called on government officials to take responsibility and resign, criticizing Netanyahu’s leadership. The protesters plan to maintain the camp for several days and have called for daily demonstrations throughout the week.
In addition to the protests against Netanyahu, there were also demonstrations in an ultra-Orthodox neighborhood demanding equality in recruitment and opposing military service. These protests led to violence and arrests by the police. The week of protests will culminate in a large demonstration in Tel Aviv to mark six months since the Gaza attacks and the kidnapping of hostages.
Overall, these protests reflect a growing discontent with the current government and a widespread call for change. The coming days are likely to see continued demonstrations and calls for action against Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.
