Thousands Protest in Jerusalem, Calling for End to Gaza War
Thousands of protesters marched in Jerusalem, demanding an end to the Gaza war and the release of hostages outside Prime Minister Netanyahu's residence.
Thousands of demonstrators filled the streets of Jerusalem on September 16, 2025, marching to the official residence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to demand an immediate end to the ongoing war in Gaza. The protest, one of the largest in recent weeks, drew a diverse crowd including families of hostages, peace activists, and ordinary citizens frustrated by the government's handling of the conflict.
Hostage Families Lead Calls for Change
Among the most vocal participants were families of Israelis held captive in Gaza, who accused the government of prioritizing military operations over negotiating for their loved ones' release. According to The Jerusalem Post, protesters gathered outside Netanyahu's residence, holding banners and chanting slogans such as "Prime Minister, you chose war over a deal." The demonstration was marked by emotional appeals, with some participants urging international leaders, including U.S. President Trump, to intervene and help secure the hostages' freedom.
Escalating Tensions and Police Response
Israeli police deployed significant forces to manage the crowd, at times forcibly removing protesters from the area surrounding the prime minister's home. The protest coincided with intensified military operations in Gaza City, as reported by ILTV Israel News and MPR News, with Israeli troops pressing forward and thousands of Palestinians fleeing the violence. The ongoing ground incursion has heightened public anxiety and fueled calls for a ceasefire.
Growing Public Dissent
Speakers at the rally, such as David Bondi, criticized the government for what they described as a "crooked regime" that is "destroying the country" without a clear public mandate. Many demonstrators expressed frustration with the lack of progress toward peace and the continued suffering on both sides of the conflict. The protest reflects a growing movement within Israel demanding accountability from leadership and a shift toward diplomatic solutions.
The demonstration in Jerusalem underscores the deep divisions within Israeli society over the war in Gaza and the fate of hostages, as well as the mounting pressure on Netanyahu's government to reconsider its approach.