Over 100,000 Israelis Protest Gaza War Resumption, Shin Bet Dismissal

Over 100,000 Israelis protested in multiple cities, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to resume military action in Gaza and his attempt to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. The protests, marked by demonstrators carrying Israeli flags, called for the government to address the hostage situation stemming from the October 7 attacks by Hamas. Critics, including opposition leader Yair Lapid, expressed concerns that Netanyahu's actions undermine democratic institutions and have already led to an injunction from Israel's Supreme Court halting Bar's dismissal. Many attendees voiced anger over the potential loss of hostages due to renewed fighting, with families of captives urging for negotiations instead of military escalation. The protests included a faction denouncing the Israeli military's actions in Gaza, highlighting the humanitarian crisis amid ongoing conflicts. Overall, the rallies showcased a significant public discontent with the current government and its handling of national security and hostage negotiations.