Thousands of Israelis demonstrated nationwide on Saturday against the government’s decision to expand its military operation in Gaza, fearing it could endanger hostages still held by Hamas.
The Israeli security cabinet on Friday approved a plan to “take security control” of the Gaza Strip, including preparations to seize Gaza City. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the move as necessary to “free our hostages,” but families of the 50 remaining captives — 20 believed to be alive — warned it would put them in greater danger.
Protesters in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, including relatives of hostages and ex-soldiers, called for an immediate end to the war. “Our hostages are dying there… if it needs to stop the war, we’ll stop the war,” one demonstrator told the BBC. Over 350 former combat soldiers have reportedly refused further service, accusing Netanyahu of waging a “political war” that harms both hostages and Palestinian civilians.
Israel’s army chief, Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, has also warned that a full occupation of Gaza could be a “trap” and jeopardise captives’ lives. Polls indicate most Israelis support a deal with Hamas over continued fighting.
International backlash is growing — Germany has halted arms exports to Israel, while the UN Security Council will meet Sunday to discuss the plan amid worsening famine in Gaza.
