Israeli police arrested nine protesters for blocking a highway near Tel Aviv, demanding early elections and a prisoner swap deal with Hamas. The protesters, holding a banner that read “enough of the government of destruction,” disrupted traffic at Morasha Junction. Police intervened, clearing the highway and arresting the protesters.
Israeli opposition parties and captive families in Gaza have been increasing pressure on the government for a swap deal. Indirect talks in Cairo and Doha have resumed this week. Despite efforts from Egypt, Qatar, and the US to secure a truce and hostage release, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu insists on defeating Hamas completely.
Israel’s defiance of a UN resolution for a cease-fire has drawn international condemnation for its ongoing offensive in Gaza. The conflict since October 7, 2023, has led to the deaths of about 38,200 Palestinians, with many more injured. Much of Gaza now lies in ruins, facing severe shortages of essential supplies.
The International Court of Justice has accused Israel of genocide and ordered a halt to its military operation in Rafah. The city, sheltering over a million Palestinians, was invaded on May 6, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.