Protests Erupt in Israel Against PM Benjamin Netanyahu, Demanding Hostage Release: 16 Protesters Arrested

Thousands of people took to the streets of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem late Saturday evening in opposition to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During this time, protesters also set fires, demanding the release of more than 130 hostages from captivity.

Amid the conflict between Hamas and Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces renewed opposition within his own country. Thousands of people demonstrated against Netanyahu in the capital, Tel Aviv, and Jerusalem late Saturday evening. 

The protesters demanded immediate elections in Israel and alleged that the government was working for its own benefit. During this time, protesters also set fires, demanding the release of more than 130 hostages from captivity.

Relatives of the hostages were among those demonstrating in Tel Aviv. The protesters blocked the city's ring road. They demanded immediate elections in the country as well as the release of the hostages.

Israelis and Hamas, mediated by international members, are due for talks in Cairo on Sunday evening, aimed at discussing a temporary ceasefire agreement in Gaza and the release of hostages. At least 134 Israelis and foreign nationals remain in Gaza, according to Israeli officials.

16 Protesters Arrested: Police

Israeli police posted on social media late Saturday night that citizens have the right to protest in a democratic country as long as it remains within legal boundaries. The police will not permit any disturbances that endanger public safety or threaten the freedom of the people. On Sunday morning, police stated that the protests in Tel Aviv had ended, while 16 protesters were arrested.

It is worth noting that there were protests in Tel Aviv last week as well. About 300 family members of the hostages and their supporters gathered outside the Israeli Defense Headquarters and demanded an immediate resolution from the Israeli government to release the detainees.

Vows to End Hamas

Netanyahu has vowed to eliminate Hamas. He has stated that there will be no ceasefire until Hamas releases the hostages. Israel will continue its attacks because capitulating would be akin to kneeling before Hamas.