It is estimated that 750,000 Israelis participated in 1 of the largest protests in the past of the country, demanding the release of remaining Israeli prisoners held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Te masoThe demonstrations took place a week after the Israeli army announced the discovery of the bodies of six captives in the tunnel in the southof the Gaza Strip.
Protests are the consequence of a increasing discontent with the politics of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The captive families and organisations representing their interests blame the government for the deficiency of a truce that could contribute to their release. "Next demonstrations over the past week have gathered unprecedented crowds, but Netanyahu maintains that military force is inactive the main way to bring the remaining captives home," reported Hamdah Salhut of Al Jazeera, reporting from Amman, Jordan.
Difficult negotiations and no breakthrough
Despite erstwhile successes in negotiations, the situation remains tense. In November, 105 Israeli prisoners were released in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners. However, more than 100 Israeli prisoners of war stay in Gaza, of which, according to Israeli sources, about a 3rd may have already died. The tensions associated with negotiations further increase the suffering of families who are constantly fighting for the lives of their loved ones.
Global condemnation of Israel’s actions
Palestinian militants under Hamas captured about 240 people during the 7 October attack on confederate Israel, resulting in at least 1139 deaths. In response, Israel carried out a number of military actions that killed more than 40,000 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli military offensive has been widely condemned by the global community, including human rights organisations.
Street Power: Protests Continue
Tel Aviv became the center of protests, where about 500,000 people gathered and the remaining 250,000 demonstrated in another cities of the country. Danielle Aloni, speaking at a rally in Tel Aviv, addressed straight to Prime Minister Netanyahu: “Sir, a fewer days ago, in front of the captive families, I said, sorry that we were incapable to bring them alive. But what is forgiveness if you do not intend to change your methods?"
Protesters are announcing that they will not step down until the government changes its policy towards the imprisoned prisoners. Despite expanding social and global pressures, Prime Minister Netanyahu inactive puts military action as the main strategy for the release of the remaining prisoners.
What's next?
The current situation is 1 of the biggest political challenges for the Netanyahu government. The demonstrations that are getting stronger can force the government to change course and take more decisive action to free the prisoners. The global community will follow developments closely, and force from both Israeli society and global organisations can be crucial in future negotiations.
Daniel Głogowski
Expert in his field – Publicist, author and social activist. The first articles were published in 1999 for global publishers. For more than 30 years, he has gained his experience through cooperation with the largest editorial offices. In his articles, he seeks to address controversial topics and present first viewpoints that allowed for a deeper knowing of the issues discussed.
Continued here:
750,000 Israelis on the streets. large protest against Netanjah politics
