Israeli police faced backlash for violently dispersing protesters in Israel, using stun grenades and skunk water typically employed against Palestinians in the West Bank. The protests erupted after the retrieval of six captives’ bodies in Gaza, sparking accusations of government neglect.
Activists, including families of the captives, blamed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for failing to secure a ceasefire deal for Gaza, which could have prevented the tragic outcome. Tensions escalated as police cracked down on the protests, marking the first use of stun grenades on domestic demonstrators.
Protesters in central Israel called for the return of captives, accusing Netanyahu of prioritizing his political interests over their loved ones’ safety. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum denounced the government’s actions, urging the public to join the nationwide strike.
Israel’s largest labor union supported the strike, leading to widespread disruptions in Tel Aviv and beyond. Police arrests and clashes with protesters ensued, highlighting the growing discontent and demands for accountability. The protests have brought attention to the long-standing tensions within Israeli society.