More than 100,000 protesters filled Tel Aviv’s streets on Aug. 9, denouncing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to escalate the Gaza war with a takeover of Gaza City. Demonstrators called for an immediate cease-fire, the release of hostages, and an end to further military escalation.
Families of the roughly 50 hostages still held in Gaza, about 20 of whom are believed to be alive, urged the government to pursue negotiations instead of risking lives through further fighting.
Israel’s security cabinet approved the plan a day earlier, outlining five “principles” to end the war, including seizing Gaza City, asserting security control over the territory, and establishing an alternative civil administration. Netanyahu claimed on X that the move would “help free our hostages and ensure Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel in the future.” Critics, including military officials, counter that the plan would endanger both hostages and soldiers.
The war has already killed about 1,200 Israelis, left 251 taken hostage, and claimed more than 61,000 Palestinian lives, according to official figures.
Protesters on Saturday carried Israeli flags, photos of hostages, and signs showing Palestinian children killed in Gaza. Crowds blocked Tel Aviv’s Ayalon Highway, lit bonfires, and clashed with police, who arrested three people and confiscated fire-starting materials.
The international response was swift. Britain, France, and Canada condemned Israel’s expansion plan, while Germany announced it would suspend military exports to the country. The United Nations warned that a full military takeover of Gaza City could have “catastrophic consequences” for civilians and hostages.
Polls indicate a majority of Israelis want the government to prioritize ending the war to secure hostage releases, adding to mounting public pressure on Netanyahu to shift course.