Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets on Saturday evening in protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, marking the largest demonstration since the conflict in the Gaza Strip began on October 7th.
According to the “Walla” news site, this week’s turnout significantly exceeded previous protests, with police deploying crowd control measures to disperse the demonstrators.
The report highlighted that the protests took place at various locations across Israel, with the main event unfolding on Kaplan Street in Tel Aviv.
Demonstrators ignited fires on Begin Street, leading to violent clashes with the police, who responded with reinforced squads to the scene.
The police declared the gathering illegal, emphasizing their serious approach to any disruptions forcing them to alter their operational course.
“We will act with zero tolerance towards those who break the law and disobey police orders,” they stated, warning against further acts of arson and unrest similar to those witnessed last week.
Protesters accused the Israeli government of abandoning the soldiers who were kidnapped and killed in the October 7th attack.
They also criticized Netanyahu for prioritizing his personal interests during this critical time for Israel.
Gaza Health Ministry reported a grim escalation in casualties within the Gaza Strip. According to their latest press release, the death toll has climbed to 32,705, with an additional 82 fatalities and 98 injuries recorded in the past 24 hours alone.
Since the eruption of hostilities between Israel and Hamas on October 7, 2023, a staggering total of 32,705 lives have been lost, with 75,190 individuals sustaining injuries during the conflict, as per the ministry’s data.
The confrontation originated from a significant Israeli offensive launched against Hamas in retaliation for a violent incursion by the latter into southern Israel on the aforementioned date.
During this incursion, Hamas forces reportedly caused the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals, while over 250 were taken captive.
