Massive anti-government protests swept Israel as tens of thousands marched nationwide against Prime Minister Netanyahu’s ‘Occupy Gaza’ plan, marking one of the largest demonstrations since the conflict began. Hostages’ families led emotional pleas to end the war and secure the return of their loved ones, while strikes by businesses and universities amplified the unrest. Netanyahu responded with a police crackdown, as pressure from citizens and high-profile figures mounted for an immediate end to hostilities and a focus on bringing hostages home.
