Mass Protests Erupt Across Israel Over Government’s Gaza Control Plan

Defence affairs - Def-Geopolitics

August 10, 2025 — Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets Saturday night in Tel Aviv and other major cities to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement of a plan to establish full control over the Gaza Strip, according to The Times of Israel. The demonstrations, described as the largest in recent months, reflect growing domestic opposition to the government’s proposed expansion of its military operation in Palestinian territory.

On Thursday, Netanyahu declared that Israel would take control of Gaza to create a “security perimeter,” with the intention of later transferring authority to a new civilian administration. He emphasized that Israel does not seek long-term occupation of the enclave. The announcement sparked immediate backlash, with families of hostages warning that the move could endanger their loved ones and calling for a nationwide general strike.

Protesters demanded a ceasefire and a hostage deal before any further military escalation. At least 10,000 demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv alone, with similar rallies reported in dozens of cities across the country.

The Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the Israeli plan, warning that it would worsen the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and destabilize the broader region.

The protests come amid ongoing fallout from the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led assault on Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and the abduction of more than 200 individuals. In response, the Israel Defense Forces launched Operation Iron Swords, imposing a full blockade on Gaza and conducting widespread airstrikes. The conflict has since claimed over 61,000 Palestinian lives and expanded into neighboring countries, including Lebanon and Yemen, while triggering missile exchanges between Israel and Iran.

As tensions mount, the Israeli public appears increasingly divided over the government’s strategy, with growing calls for diplomacy and humanitarian relief over continued military engagement.