What's happened
On August 17, 2025, tens of thousands of Israelis protested nationwide against Prime Minister Netanyahu's plan to expand military operations in Gaza City. Families of hostages held by Hamas demand a ceasefire and a deal for their release, fearing the offensive endangers the 50 remaining captives. The protests included strikes, roadblocks, and calls for international pressure on Hamas amid escalating casualties and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
What's behind the headline?
Political and Humanitarian Tensions
The mass protests reveal deep divisions within Israeli society over the government's approach to the Gaza conflict. Families of hostages and many civilians prioritize immediate ceasefire negotiations to save lives, while Netanyahu and his far-right coalition insist on military victory over Hamas before any peace.
Hostage Crisis as a Central Driver
The fate of the 50 remaining hostages, only about 20 believed alive, is the emotional core of the protests. Families argue that military escalation risks their loved ones' lives, advocating for negotiated deals instead. Netanyahu counters that military pressure is necessary to defeat Hamas and secure their release.
International and Domestic Pressure
International leaders like French President Macron and Italy's Defense Minister criticize the offensive as a path to prolonged war and humanitarian disaster. Domestically, Netanyahu faces potential coalition instability, with far-right ministers opposing any ceasefire that leaves Hamas in power.
Humanitarian Catastrophe
The blockade and bombardment have created a dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with starvation and malnutrition at record levels. Aid deliveries remain insufficient despite partial resumption. The planned forced evacuation of civilians from combat zones adds complexity and risk.
Forecast
The conflict will likely intensify as Israel prepares for the Gaza City offensive, risking further civilian casualties and hostage endangerment. Protests may grow if the government persists without negotiating, potentially destabilizing Netanyahu's coalition. International diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire and hostage release face significant obstacles but remain critical to preventing further escalation.
What the papers say
The Independent highlights the scale of protests, quoting Yehuda Cohen: "We live between a terrorist organisation that holds our children and a government that refuses to release them for political reasons." It details the government's balancing act amid far-right opposition and the humanitarian toll in Gaza. The New Arab and Al Jazeera emphasize the families' calls for a ceasefire, with former captive Arbel Yehoud stating, "Military pressure doesn’t bring hostages back — it only kills them." They report on the nationwide strike and roadblocks, noting the partial participation of unions and businesses.
The NY Post focuses on the protests' scale and clashes with police, quoting Israeli President Isaac Herzog: "There’s no Israeli who doesn’t want them back home." It contrasts Netanyahu's stance rejecting ceasefire proposals with families' pleas for negotiation. The Times of Israel provides international perspectives, including French President Macron's call for a UN-mandated ceasefire mission and Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto's condemnation of the offensive as "the pure denial of the law and the founding values of our civilization."
SBS and The Independent also report personal stories from hostage families, such as Lishay Miran-Lavi and Yotam Cohen, underscoring the human cost and emotional urgency behind the protests. They document the government's military preparations and the humanitarian crisis, including starvation deaths and blocked aid.
Together, these sources present a multifaceted picture: a government committed to military victory, families and civilians demanding peace and hostage release, and an international community alarmed by the escalating conflict and humanitarian disaster.
How we got here
The protests follow nearly two years of conflict sparked by Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which killed over 1,200 people and took 251 hostages. Israel's ongoing military offensive in Gaza has killed over 61,000 Palestinians, with widespread famine and humanitarian collapse. Netanyahu's government approved plans to seize Gaza City despite warnings from military officials and international criticism.
Go deeper
- What are the families of hostages demanding?
- How is Netanyahu responding to the protests?
- What is the international community's stance on the Gaza offensive?
Common question
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Why Are Protests Against Gaza Escalation Happening in Israel?
Recent military actions in Gaza have sparked widespread protests within Israel. Many Israelis are demanding an end to the escalation, citing concerns over civilian casualties, the safety of hostages, and the risk of a broader war. These protests reflect deep divisions over how to handle the conflict and highlight the growing public pressure on government leaders to pursue diplomatic solutions instead of military expansion. Below, we explore the reasons behind these protests and what they mean for the ongoing conflict.
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Gaza Crisis: What’s Next in Israel’s Offensive and Hostage Situation
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has escalated rapidly, with Israel expanding its military operations amid a tense hostage crisis and mounting international pressure. Many are asking what the next steps might be, how civilians and hostages are affected, and what global efforts are underway to stop the violence. Here’s what you need to know about the current situation and what could happen next.
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What’s Behind the Rising Tensions in Global Politics?
Recent developments in international relations have raised questions about the shifting alliances, conflicts, and regional powers shaping our world today. From military partnerships to regional conflicts, understanding these tensions is key to grasping the current global landscape. Below, we explore some of the most pressing questions about these rising tensions and what they mean for the future.
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How Are Global Alliances and Diplomacy Changing in 2025?
The world in 2025 is witnessing significant shifts in military alliances and diplomatic efforts. From Russia and North Korea strengthening their ties to ongoing conflicts in Gaza and evolving regional politics, understanding these changes is crucial. Below, we explore the key questions shaping international relations this year and what they mean for global peace and stability.
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.
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