Day of Disruption: Israelis Protest against Netanyahu’s Gaza City Offensive
Israelis have taken to the streets as part of a “Day of Disruption” aimed at protesting against the expansion of the war in Gaza and demanding a deal to release the hostages, reported the Associated Press (AP).
The demonstrations condemned the call-up of tens of thousands of reservists for the Gaza City military operation, accusing the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his cabinet’s far-right flank of failing to reach a ceasefire and putting the hostages’ lives at risk by expanding the war.
The families of the hostages held by Hamas lead the “Day of Disruption” protests, which began on Wednesday and are expected to last for three days.
According to Israeli media, the protests have been marked with violence as demonstrators set ablaze garbage bins and cars, including near the residence of Netanyahu.
Moreover, dozens of protesters topped the roof of the National Library near the Knesset, unfurling banners carrying Netanyahu’s image and the words: “You abandoned and you killed!” reported the Times of Israel.
One of the National Library protesters told Kan public broadcaster: “We must commit an extreme act so that someone is reminded [to act]. A state cannot abandon its citizens. The National Library overlooks the Knesset. We want to be seen.”
In another gathering outside the home of Strategic Affairs Minister, Ron Dermer, one of the protesters accused the government of “complete failure” and “torpedoing” a proposed deal that Hamas accepted weeks ago by not responding to it, according to Ynet news website.
The nationwide protests are taking place as Israel is intensifying its air and ground operations on the outskirts of Gaza City – the Strip’s largest urban hub – as part of its plan to take over the entire city, despite global condemnation.
