Tens of thousands of people flooded the streets of Jerusalem on Sunday, demanding significant changes in the government’s policies and military service exemptions. The demonstrators, reminiscent of last year’s mass protests, rallied outside the Knesset, calling for a new election to replace the current government led by Benjamin Netanyahu.
Organized by various protest groups, the rally aimed to address several pressing issues, including the unequal distribution of the military service burden and the exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jewish men. Many Israelis expressed frustration over the disparity in army service obligations, particularly in light of recent casualties, with around 600 soldiers killed since the Hamas attack in October.
Reports from Israel’s N12 News, Haaretz, and Ynet news sites indicated that the demonstration might be the largest since the outbreak of the war in Gaza. Protesters waved Israeli flags and chanted slogans demanding immediate elections.
Criticism of Netanyahu’s cabinet intensified following the security failure during the Hamas attack, which resulted in numerous casualties and hostages taken to Gaza. Demonstrators, like 74-year-old Nurit Robinson, condemned the government’s actions, labeling it a “complete and utter failure.”
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has exacerbated societal tensions, particularly regarding exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jewish seminary students from military service. Netanyahu’s government faced pressure to address this issue by a March 31 deadline. However, the Supreme Court’s interim ruling suspended state funding for seminary students liable for conscription, adding fuel to the protesters’ demands.
In response to the demonstrations, Netanyahu expressed confidence in finding a solution but warned against holding elections amid ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, in Tel Aviv, families of hostages blocked a major highway, accusing Netanyahu of failing to secure the release of their loved ones.
The protests underscore growing discontent among Israelis, highlighting the urgent need for governmental reforms and addressing societal divisions. As tensions continue to escalate, the nation awaits decisive actions from its leaders to address the pressing concerns raised by the demonstrators.
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