Mass Protests Erupt in Israel Against Gaza War

Amid the ongoing war in Gaza, Israel is experiencing significant internal dissent, with thousands of military personnel and civilians signing petitions and joining protests demanding an end to the conflict and prioritization of prisoner release. Surveys show the majority of Israelis oppose the government's war-focused approach, with many supporting negotiations with Hamas and calling for Prime Minister Netanyahu to accept responsibility for recent events. These protests have grown to include diverse groups, such as reserve soldiers, retired security officials, and former Mossad heads, reflecting a near-consensus that the government's current strategy is not achieving its stated goals. Government officials, however, have criticized the protests, insisting on the continuation of military operations. The political divide has intensified as public optimism about the country's direction declines. This unprecedented wave of civil disobedience underscores deepening rifts within Israeli society over the Gaza war and the government's handling of the crisis.