Israelis Rally Against Netanyahu Over War, Shin Bet Chief’s Dismissal
Thousands of Israelis protested in Tel Aviv on Tuesday night and in Jerusalem on Wednesday, voicing opposition to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership, the renewed war in Gaza, and plans to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. Demonstrators accuse Netanyahu of putting political survival ahead of national security and the return of hostages.
In Tel Aviv, protesters gathered at Habima Square, where former security chiefs, including ex-Mossad head Tamir Pardo and former police chief Roni Alsheich, spoke against Netanyahu’s policies. Pardo accused the prime minister of prolonging the war for personal gain, calling it the “peace for Netanyahu war.” Alsheich questioned Netanyahu’s reliance on Qatar as a mediator, arguing that it serves to keep Hamas in power. Families of hostages also addressed the crowd, demanding urgent action to bring their loved ones home.
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By Wednesday morning, protesters were marching toward Jerusalem, blocking the main highway into the city. Many carried Israeli flags and yellow banners symbolizing the hostages. Some held signs reading “Democracy is in danger” and “There is no victory without the hostages.” Opposition Leader Yair Lapid called for nationwide demonstrations, urging Israelis to “stand firm against a government that is trying to dismantle the country.”
Netanyahu’s efforts to remove Bar and Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara have intensified public outrage. Critics see the move as retaliation for investigations into alleged ties between Netanyahu’s aides and Qatari officials. Meanwhile, freed hostages warned that continued military action puts the remaining captives in greater danger. “The hostages … are not posters, they’re people, and their time is running out,” said former hostage Sasha Troufanov.
With protests spreading and political tensions rising, opposition figures and demonstrators continue to demand government accountability and a renewed focus on securing the hostages’ release.
