Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets of Tel Aviv in protest after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. The demonstrations, dubbed “Gallant Night 2” by protest organizers, mirrored the intense protests that erupted earlier this year when Gallant faced dismissal amid the judicial reform controversy before the Israel-Hamas war.
Blockades and Protests Nationwide
The protests disrupted multiple highways and intersections across the country. Tel Aviv saw the largest gathering, with many participants chanting anti-government slogans. Similar demonstrations took place in Jerusalem and Haifa, adding to the widespread unrest.
Dozens Arrested in Tel Aviv
By early morning, Ynet News reported that Tel Aviv police had detained over 40 protesters. Among the incidents was a confrontation involving Labor Party member Gilad Kariv, who clashed with police during the protests. As the crowd continued to grow, authorities deployed water cannons to clear demonstrators from the Ayalon freeway.
Labour Party minister Naama Lazimi noted that one of her advisers, who was previously injured in Gaza, was also arrested after assisting hostage families protesting by blocking roads.
Demands for Hostage Release and Government Accountability
The protests voiced anger over Gallant’s firing and also raised demands for the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza. A statement from protest organizers warned that further protests would begin the following day without a clear end, emphasizing, “We are stopping the country.”
Israeli Police Responds
Israeli police released a statement confirming their presence at protest sites across the country to manage safety and public order. “The Israel Police are present at protest locations across the country in substantial numbers, ensuring security and maintaining public order,” it read. The statement urged demonstrators to follow officers’ instructions to protect everyone’s safety.
Hostage Families Criticize Gallant’s Dismissal
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum condemned Gallant’s firing, describing it as “a direct continuation of efforts to sabotage a hostage deal.” They urged Gallant’s successor, Israel Katz, to focus on securing an agreement to bring back all hostages and end the ongoing conflict. They also stated that Gallant’s exit reflected “the flawed priorities of the Israeli government,” noting that Israel’s primary military objectives in Gaza had already been achieved.
