Thousands of Israelis took to the streets in Jerusalem on Monday, continuing a three-day protest against the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and demanding new elections. The protests have intensified as the war in Gaza nears its sixth month, with anger mounting over the government’s handling of the 134 Israeli hostages still held by Hamas.
“We’re here to protest. To ask for having elections as soon as possible. We feel like we got it to the edge. We really need to get rid of Bibi,” said Timna Benn, a protester in Jerusalem, using Netanyahu’s nickname.
Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition faced massive protests last year over plans to overhaul the Supreme Court, seen as an attack on Israel’s democratic foundations. Despite ruling out early elections, polls suggest Netanyahu would lose, with many blaming him for security failures leading to the devastating attack by Hamas fighters in southern Israel.
“They are not concerned about what happens in the country and with the people. They are concerned about maintaining their position in government. They work for themselves, not for the people. Simple as that,” said protester Refael Shakked-Gavish.
In addition to the protests, Netanyahu faces opposition from ultra-Orthodox Jewish demonstrators over the removal of military service exemptions for young students. The ongoing unrest highlights the deep divisions within Israeli society and the growing dissatisfaction with the current government.
As the calls for new elections grow louder, the future of Israeli politics remains uncertain, with the possibility of significant changes on the horizon.