Israeli Protesters Demand Hostage Deal and New Elections

Israeli protesters have organized demonstrations across the country today in opposition to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. The protesters are demanding a new election, and a deal to secure the release of Israeli hostages being held in Gaza.

The protesters have blocked the Ayalon highway in Tel Aviv, displaying banners with the message “All eyes on Netanyahu,” and burning a cage to block traffic. Also blocking traffic in Tel Aviv are groups of Haredi protesters organizing demonstrations in opposition to the recent Israeli Supreme Court ruling requiring ultra-Orthodox be subject to military conscription.

The protesters claim Netanyahu has failed the hostages, stating, “The Prime Minister has abandoned the hostages, willing to let them remain in Gaza as long as he remains in power…. Only a comprehensive deal that brings back all the hostages and ends the conflict in Gaza can save the country.”