Growing Discontent in Israel Over Gaza War and Hostage Crisis

“We need to start a revolution against this government. But how?” Miri Rozovsky, 57, encapsulates the question that plagues a segment of Israeli society angered by Benjamin Netanyahu’s government and its refusal to end the war in the Gaza Strip to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas since October 7, 2023. The government’s announcement on Friday, August 8, of the progressive occupation of the Palestinian enclave, under Israeli military fire for nearly two years, has terrified the thousands who demonstrate every Saturday in solidarity with the hostages.

How to move from fear to mobilization? “A strike,” replies Miri Rozovsky in front of the Tel Aviv square where, like every weekend, a gathering begins on Saturday, August 9. Like Tomer Pelts, a 22-year-old student: “We must toughen the movement because the government is not listening to Israelis. If we have to go as far as a strike, we will.” Or Dan, 60, a tech executive, former special forces, candles in hand, who refuses to give his name: “A strike. Or civil resistance. Because no one wants to occupy Gaza: we know the moral, financial, and human cost.”

The situation remains tense as families and citizens grapple with the ongoing conflict and the fate of those held captive.

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