Official announcement from the Israeli government or major news outlets like BBC, Reuters, or The New York Times

Israeli Protesters Block Highways on July 7, Demand Hostage Release and Netanyahu's Resignation

Jul 7, 2024, 10:00 AM

Protesters in Tel Aviv and across Israel have blocked highways on July 7, calling for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. The demonstrations mark nine months since the war in Gaza began. Protesters are demanding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's resignation and a ceasefire to facilitate the hostages' return. Police deployed water cannons to disperse the demonstrators, who had blocked the Ayalon Highway, causing significant traffic disruptions. The protests, part of traditional Saturday anti-government rallies, saw demonstrators burning car tires and gathering in front of the homes of government officials after a weekly rally on Kaplan Street.