Israeli Demonstrators Demand Prisoner Release
Yesterday, February 3, 2024, hundreds of Israelis took to the streets in cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Beersheba, and Rehovot. They were demanding the removal of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government and the holding of parliamentary elections. These protests came as the war on the Gaza Strip entered its 120th day.
Protesters Hold Netanyahu Responsible
During the demonstrations, the protesters blamed Netanyahu for the events of October 7 and the subsequent mismanagement of the prisoner exchange deal. They also accused him of corruption.
Accelerating the Return of Israeli Prisoners
The demonstrators demanded that the government speed up the return of 136 Israeli prisoners held by the Palestinian resistance in Gaza.
Protests Across Israel
According to Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper, hundreds of Israelis gathered at the Horev Junction in Haifa, carrying banners that read, "Elections are now and save the prisoners." In Rehovot, dozens of people also demonstrated and chanted against Netanyahu.
Regular Protests for Early Elections and Prisoner Release
Israeli citizens have been demonstrating almost daily, calling for early elections and the release of prisoners in Gaza. However, the main demonstrations usually take place on Saturdays.
Israeli Prisoners in Gaza
Israeli officials estimate that around 136 Israelis are still detained in the Gaza Strip since Hamas launched Operation Al-Aqsa Flood on October 7. During this attack, the Palestinian resistance captured at least 239 people and exchanged some of them with Israel during a temporary humanitarian truce.
Release of Palestinian Prisoners
Under the truce, Israel released 240 Palestinian prisoners, including 71 females and 169 children, from its prisons.
Devastating War on Gaza
Since October 7, the Israeli army has been engaged in a destructive war on Gaza. According to Palestinian authorities, this war has resulted in 27,238 deaths and 66,452 injuries, mostly among children and women. The United Nations has also reported massive destruction and an unprecedented humanitarian disaster.
Source: Anadolu Agency
