On Wednesday, protesters assembled in Jerusalem, marching towards the residence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to express their opposition to the government’s renewed military actions in Gaza.
Israel violated a fragile ceasefire early Tuesday by launching extensive airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, which incited anger among many Israelis and raised concerns for the safety of hostages still held there.
According to local health officials, the airstrikes resulted in the deaths of over 400 Palestinians, effectively ending a ceasefire that had been in effect since January.
Protester Alon Shirizly stated, “Netanyahu will be responsible for the deaths of the 59 hostages in Gaza who remain trapped in the tunnels. They are waiting for us to rescue them and bring them home, but war will not achieve that. Only negotiations can.”
Anat Shoval, a protester from central Israel, remarked on a shift within the Israeli government. “I believe they are leading us in a very harmful direction that undermines our democracy and our nation,” she said. “As a citizen, I feel it is essential for everyone to voice their concerns.”
Currently, there are 24 living hostages in Gaza, and Israel claims that Hamas is also in possession of the remains of 35 captives.
Netanyahu authorized the airstrikes on Tuesday after Hamas declined Israel’s demands to release half of the remaining hostages as a condition for prolonging the ceasefire.
The recent bombardment, described as Israel’s most lethal during the 17-month conflict, predominantly affected women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
Netanyahu stated that the assault was merely the “beginning” and emphasized that Israel would continue its efforts until it fulfills all its military objectives, which include dismantling Hamas and securing the release of all hostages held by the group.
Hamas reported that at least six high-ranking officials were killed in the airstrikes. Israel confirmed that those targeted included the leader of Hamas’ civilian administration, a justice ministry representative, and two heads of security agencies.
The White House indicated that it had been kept informed and expressed its support for Israel’s actions.
This new offensive comes as humanitarian organizations warn that supplies are depleting, two weeks after Israel halted all food, medicine, fuel, and other essential goods to the two million Palestinians in Gaza.
