Mass Protests Erupt in Jerusalem Demanding Hostage Deal Amidst Growing Tensions

Dozens of protesters gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence on Gaza Street this evening, following a larger demonstration earlier at the Knesset that attracted approximately 2,000 participants. The protests focused on demands for a resolution regarding abducted individuals and opposition to what protesters termed a "return to the coup d'état."

Among the demonstrators was former Defense Minister Moshe "Bogi" Ya'alon, who voiced support for the protesters’ demands.

Arrests and Police Action

At least nine individuals were arrested during the protest near the Prime Minister's home. Following the earlier demonstration at the Knesset, where activists advocated for the abductees’ return and criticized the government, a smaller group proceeded to Netanyahu's residence. The police intervened after some protesters refused to leave, using force to disperse the crowd, which included mounted officers.

The police issued a statement indicating that demonstrators acted contrary to prior arrangements made with protest organizers, asserting that many ignored instructions to maintain order.

Voices from the Protest

During the demonstration at the Knesset, Shay Mozes, the 80-year-old nephew of abductee Gadi Mozes, criticized the government’s approach, claiming, “A prime minister who wants to return the abductees would leave this position of power in an initiative to save lives.” He accused Netanyahu of prioritizing political survival over the immediate needs of families of the abducted.

Former Chief of Staff Dan Halutz also addressed the crowd, stating, “101 abductees held by Hamas must be returned at any cost, all for all, now.” He called for an end to hostilities, arguing that the current military strategy lacks clear goals and is detrimental to the lives of the abductees.

Halutz further condemned the government’s actions, stating, “This is a government devoid of morals and values, which blatantly violates, with the help of the army, the High Court's directives regarding equal recruitment for all.”

As the protests unfold, tensions continue to rise over the handling of the abductees’ situation and broader concerns regarding government policy and military strategy.