Thousands of Israelis took to the streets of Tel Aviv on May 5, 2024, demanding a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and the resignation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The protests came as a Hamas delegation was in Cairo for ceasefire talks with Israel. According to reports, around 1.4 million people have fled fighting in central and northern Gaza during the conflict, which began on October 7, 2023. Approximately 34,000 Palestinians have been killed and widespread destruction has plunged the territory into an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. The Israeli government insists on destroying Hamas as its stated goal.
The protesters in Tel Aviv demanded that the government reach a deal to bring back hostages from Gaza, call for new elections, and resignation of Netanyahu. They believed that his hardline stance was prolonging the conflict to keep himself in power. The Israeli government has been criticized for its refusal to accept an end to the war without destroying Hamas.
The main source of contention in ceasefire talks appears to be whether any deal would be permanent or temporary. Hamas insists that a ceasefire must include a withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and an end to fighting, while Israel has yet to commit to such terms. Egyptian and US mediators have reported signs of compromise in recent days but the chances for a full ceasefire remain uncertain.
The families of hostages held in Gaza rallied ahead of Holocaust Remembrance Day, calling upon Netanyahu and the cabinet to ensure 'Never Again'. About 250 hostages are being held by Hamas, with approximately half still in Gaza and many believed to be in Rafah. The Israeli protesters demanded a deal that would secure the release of these hostages.
The conflict has caused widespread destruction and human suffering, with both sides accusing each other of violating international law. It is important for all parties involved to prioritize diplomacy and find a peaceful solution to end the violence.
