Fragile Democracy
Thousands of Israelis participate in weekly protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Read More…
Fragile Democracy
Thousands of Israelis participate in weekly protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel. Demonstrations take place in major cities such as Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa. Protesters gather to rally against Netanyahu’s far-right government and a proposed judicial reform plan by his hardline nationalist administration. Some groups protest the renewed bombardment on Gaza, while others demand Netanyahu's resignation, advocate for peace, and call for early elections after months of conflict in Gaza. A crowd donning T-shirts and banners featuring the names and images of hostages seized during Hamas's October 7 attack demands swift action to rescue the remaining captives..
During these demonstrations, participants march, chant, display banners, hold signs, chant slogans, and listen to speeches from organizers and political leaders. Some engage in street theater and performances as well as other creative actions to express their frustrations and demands. Some even go to extreme lengths, blocking highways.
People protest government policies, seeking accountability from political leaders and advocating for a change in national decision-making. The demonstrations also provide a platform for citizens to voice their concerns and support social justice, peace, and the rights of marginalized communities.
Police have used water cannons to disperse protesters, drawing criticism for excessive force and arresting peaceful demonstrators, limiting freedom of expression. However, there have been instances where the police have allowed peaceful protests to proceed and even provided security for participants.
The intensity of these weekly public protests in Israel is significant, with hundreds of thousands of people participating in some. They are among the largest demonstrations in the country's history. Many participants are passionate about their causes and determined to make their voices heard. The ongoing political and social challenges in the country have created a sense of urgency and solidarity among demonstrators, making these protests a strong form of civic engagement and activism.
Thousands of Israelis participate in weekly protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel. Demonstrations take place in major cities such as Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa. Protesters gather to rally against Netanyahu’s far-right government and a proposed judicial reform plan by his hardline nationalist administration. Some groups protest the renewed bombardment on Gaza, while others demand Netanyahu’s resignation, advocate for peace, and call for early elections after months of conflict in Gaza. A crowd donning T-shirts and banners featuring the names and images of hostages seized during Hamas’s October 7 attack demands swift action to rescue the remaining captives.
During these demonstrations, participants march, chant, display banners, hold signs, chant slogans, and listen to speeches from organizers and political leaders. Some engage in street theater and performances as well as other creative actions to express their frustrations and demands. Some even go to extreme lengths, blocking highways.
People protest government policies, seeking accountability from political leaders and advocating for a change in national decision-making. The demonstrations also provide a platform for citizens to voice their concerns and support social justice, peace, and the rights of marginalized communities.
Police have used water cannons to disperse protesters, drawing criticism for excessive force and arresting peaceful demonstrators, limiting freedom of expression. However, there have been instances where the police have allowed peaceful protests to proceed and even provided security for participants.
The intensity of these weekly public protests in Israel is significant, with hundreds of thousands of people participating in some. They are among the largest demonstrations in the country’s history. Many participants are passionate about their causes and determined to make their voices heard. The ongoing political and social challenges in the country have created a sense of urgency and solidarity among demonstrators, making these protests a strong form of civic engagement and activism.
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan WittenbergFaces of India