ALWAGHT- Israelis have protested against Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to restart the war in Gaza, demanding a renewed ceasefire agreement to ensure the release of the remaining captives.
Protesters gathered outside the Knesset in al-Quds on Wednesday, criticizing Netanyahu for prioritizing his political survival over Israel’s interests and the lives of captives in Gaza. Demonstrators blocked a major highway while marching into the city, holding banners that read, “The future of the coalition or the future of Israel.” The protest followed Israel’s renewed airstrikes on Gaza, which killed over 400 Palestinians and ended a temporary ceasefire.
Elias Shraga, head of Israel’s Movement for Quality Government, accused Netanyahu of using the war to remain in power and avoid justice. He argued that the prime minister is willing to sacrifice his people to maintain his coalition, pointing to the timing of the attacks just before Netanyahu’s corruption trial hearing. Shraga also claimed that Netanyahu’s actions showed disregard for Israeli captives who were supposed to be released under the ceasefire deal.
The resumption of strikes helped Netanyahu solidify his fragile coalition ahead of a crucial budget vote. Following the airstrikes, far-right leader Itamar Ben-Gvir and his Jewish Power party rejoined the government after previously resigning in protest of the January ceasefire. Opposition leader Yair Lapid, who joined the protest, warned that the government cannot act without accountability. Meanwhile, Israel continues to avoid negotiations for a second phase of the ceasefire, despite failing to achieve its objectives since launching its war on Gaza on October 7, 2023.
