
Tens of thousands of people gathered in Tel Aviv on Saturday night to express their opposition to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to intensify the war in Gaza by taking direct control of Gaza City. The protest was notable for including families of hostages, highlighting concerns for the 50 remaining captives held by Hamas, of whom approximately 20 are believed to be alive.
The proposed military expansion has sparked significant criticism both within Israel and internationally. While Netanyahu defended the operation in Jerusalem by emphasizing that the objective is to “free Gaza” rather than occupy it, his stance faces opposition from within his own government.
Government Divisions and Criticism
- Bezalel Smotrich, the hard-line Israeli finance minister, condemned the phased approach and urged for more rapid and decisive action against Hamas.
- This disagreement signals internal tensions regarding the best strategy to address the conflict.
Regional and Global Reactions
The military campaign has escalated tensions across the region and drawn widespread condemnation worldwide. European and international leaders have increased diplomatic pressure on Israel to pursue peaceful solutions, reflecting global concern over the humanitarian impact and broader stability.
Humanitarian Impact
Reports indicate a worsening situation in Gaza, with rising starvation deaths including nearly 100 children. This has heightened the urgency for intervention and relief efforts.
Current Status and Outlook
- The Israeli cabinet is expected to approve Netanyahu’s Gaza war plan soon.
- The situation remains highly fluid with ongoing protests and international attention focused on developments.
The coming days will be critical as the conflict continues to unfold, with implications for the region’s stability and humanitarian conditions. Stay tuned to Questiqa World News for the latest updates on this evolving situation.