Israel is facing a period of intense internal turmoil as widespread protests erupt across the nation. Demonstrations, reportedly involving over 600,000 citizens from Kiryat Shmona in the north to Eilat in the south, are targeting the government of Benjamin Netanyahu.
Thousands gathered outside Prime Minister Netanyahu’s residence in occupied Jerusalem following the dismissal of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Tensions escalated when a vehicle allegedly attempted to run down a group of protesters in Tel Aviv. Demonstrators near the Knesset chanted slogans calling for the government’s downfall.
Former security officials have described Gallant’s dismissal as a significant step towards the disintegration of the army, stating that “Israel is bleeding.” Avi Benayahu, a former spokesperson for the Israeli army, characterized the situation as “the darkest evening in Israel’s history.”
Protesters reportedly reached the entrance of Netanyahu’s home, an unprecedented occurrence during the ongoing demonstrations. Thousands also protested in Tel Aviv, blocking the Ayalon highway and disrupting traffic. Protest organizers indicated their intention to remain on the Ayalon highway throughout the night.
The army has reportedly raised its alert level amidst the growing internal division. A senior police officer stated that authorities have “lost control in several places where demonstrations are taking place.” The Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency medical service, has also reportedly raised its alert level at protest sites.
Earlier reports indicated that Unit 730, a security detail, evacuated the Netanyahu family to the Shin Bet headquarters in occupied Jerusalem after protesters breached barriers around his residence. Concerns are mounting over the state of national security, with some asserting that “Israel’s security is in clear and immediate danger.”
Reports suggest a sense of chaos near Netanyahu’s residence, with the situation appearing to be spiraling out of control. It is claimed that the Shin Bet experienced a major security failure in the Gaza Street area of Jerusalem, where Netanyahu resides, coinciding with the demonstrations.
