Jerusalem: Tensions escalated in the central Israeli community of Mazor as dozens of protesters clashed with police ahead of a visit by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sarah.
The demonstrators, visibly angry and defiant, voiced strong opposition to Netanyahu’s ongoing war policy in Gaza and demanded urgent action for the release of 59 Israeli captives still held in the territory.
Videos from the protest showed a charged atmosphere, with crowds waving signs and chanting slogans against the government. Protesters accused Netanyahu of dragging the country into prolonged destruction, arguing that the war has brought no tangible results but immense suffering and insecurity for both sides. The call to bring the hostages home was echoed repeatedly as emotions ran high.
As Netanyahu’s arrival approached, tensions flared further. Protesters surged forward, pushing against police barricades and trying to force their way through a makeshift gate set up to restrict access. The clash with law enforcement highlighted the growing internal dissatisfaction among Israelis who feel abandoned by their leadership during a time of national crisis.
The demonstration reflects a deepening divide within Israeli society. While the government insists on maintaining military pressure on Gaza, many citizens are demanding a strategic shift — one that prioritizes negotiation and the safe return of hostages over continued conflict.
The scene in Mazor underscores the rising frustration among the public, as questions mount about the true cost of the war and the leadership’s ability to resolve the ongoing crisis. With public protests intensifying, pressure is mounting on Netanyahu to change course.
