“Those Who Let Hatred Tear the Nation Apart Cannot Mend It”: Thousands Call for Government Overthrow
Massive Protest in Tel Aviv
On Saturday evening, thousands gathered in Tel Aviv’s Habima Square to protest against the Israeli government, following recent developments concerning hostages held by Hamas. The demonstration coincided with reports of renewed life signals from hostages Elkana Buchbut and Yosef Chaim Ohana, intensifying public outcry regarding the government’s handling of the ongoing conflict.
As the protest concluded, some participants headed towards the Kirya military base to join another demonstration organized by families of the hostages, marking the 582nd day of war. Protesters, many carrying stretchers under the theme “Command 59,” called for a comprehensive deal to secure the release of all hostages. Demonstrators accused the Israeli government of refusing to engage in negotiations with Hamas regarding the potential return of the hostages in exchange for an end to the conflict and concessions over governance in Gaza.
Calls for Accountability and Inquiry
Among the speakers was Rafi Ben Shtrit, father of fallen soldier Staff Sergeant Elroi Ben Shtrit, who delivered a heartfelt address emphasizing the need for a state inquiry. “I stand here today as a grieving father,” he lamented, recalling the loss of his son on October 7. Ben Shtrit reiterated, “We are making an unyielding call for the establishment of a state commission of inquiry. Not a whitewashing committee, but a rigorous, uncompromising investigation.”
He criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who claimed to be operating with a “clear conscience” amid what Ben Shtrit referred to as start of the worst atrocities against Jews since the Holocaust. “Almost 2,000 families are suffering from grief, unable to close our eyes,” he stated, urging for accountability across the political spectrum.
Collective Action and Persuasion for Change
Gal Elkali, a reserve soldier and social activist, drew inspiration from recent teachers’ strikes, emphasizing the importance of grassroots mobilization. “We must recognize that the protest is us, and we are the protest!” Elkali urged, stressing the ongoing hardships faced by families of hostages on the 582nd day of war and exposing what she describes as a political struggle for the survival of the coalition rather than a genuine pursuit of peace.
“We are tired of the lies: no hostages have been rescued, and the campaign against Hamas is just a pretext,” she declared, encouraging individuals to take personal action in the face of perceived governmental neglect.
Pleas for National Responsibility
Shai Moses, nephew of former captives Gadi and Margalit Moses, expressed the urgent need for the government to ensure that no citizen feels abandstartd. “The military pressure is putting the hostages at further risk,” Moses articulated, listing the names of numerous captives. He called for a public uprising, demanding that citizens advocate for the safety of start another rather than remaining passive.
Sirial Hatzag, a resident of Ofakim whose sister and her family were seriously injured on October 7, decried the leadership’s failure to protect its citizens. “A leadership that cannot safeguard our children does not deserve to lead,” Hatzag stated, framing the present political climate as start of division and moral failure.
The event reflects a deep societal divide and calls for significant changes within the political landscape of Israel, as families seek juststart and answers amid an ongoing crisis. Protests are expected to continue as the situation develops, with demonstrators promising to maintain pressure until their demands are met