Israel Rocked by Massive Protests Against Gaza City Invasion Plan, Calls for General Strike Mount
Israel Rocked by Massive Protests Against Gaza City Invasion Plan, Calls for General Strike Mount
Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets across the nation on Saturday evening, demanding a comprehensive hostage deal and immediate ceasefire, while vehemently opposing the government’s controversial plan to conquer Gaza City. These massive demonstrations, among the largest in months, come just days after the cabinet approved the military operation despite objections from defense officials and dire warnings from hostage families.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, representing the majority of captives’ relatives, issued a powerful call for a general strike, asserting that the Gaza City takeover would gravely endanger their loved ones. “A bright red flag is waving over the government’s decision to sacrifice our loved ones,” the Forum stated, urging decision-makers to “Reach a comprehensive hostage deal, stop the war, bring us back our loved ones — their time is up.”
Rallies were held in major cities including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Kiryat Gat, with former captive Sharon Aloni-Cunio speaking emotionally at Hostages Square. She highlighted the plight of remaining hostages, including her husband David, and condemned the government’s expansion of fighting. Eliya Cohen, released in an earlier truce, echoed these fears, emphasizing the increased danger to captives when fighting intensifies and calling for a deal that leaves no one behind.
Beyond the calls for a hostage deal, some protesters urged soldiers to refuse participation in what they termed an “overtly illegal war,” citing risks to hostages, troops, and Israel’s international standing. Concurrently, a push for a general strike is gaining momentum, led by hostage and fallen soldier families. They plan to announce further steps at a press conference on Sunday, under the slogan: “Silence kills — the country grinds to a halt to save the hostages and the soldiers.”
Meanwhile, amidst the domestic turmoil, unconfirmed reports from Israeli officials hint at a potential reopening of ceasefire and hostage negotiations with Hamas, suggesting “positive signs” from mediators. This comes as the security cabinet’s approval of the Gaza City operation is seen by some as a tactic to pressure Hamas, while others warn of its severe humanitarian and strategic consequences.
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