Israel’s Netanyahu says antiwar protesters strengthening Hamas
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned antiwar protesters who have come out across the country, demanding an end to the war on Gaza.
Netanyahu said they were boosting Hamas’s position in negotiations for the release of captives.
“Those calling today for an end to the war without the defeat of Hamas not only harden Hamas’s position and draw out the release of our hostages but also ensure that the horrors of October 7 will reoccur,” Netanyahu told a cabinet meeting, according to a statement from his office.
People take part in a protest at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv
Israeli police arrest 38 protesters calling for Gaza ceasefire
Police say they arrested 38 people on suspicion of public disorder during the nationwide protests calling for an end to the war on Gaza.
Some of the people were detained in Tel Aviv after they “violated public order and significantly impaired freedom of movement” on the roads, officials quoted by The Times of Israel said.
Police arrest a protester calling for a ceasefire deal that would see Israeli captives returned from Gaza, on August 17, 2025, in Tel Aviv
Protesters will continue to fight until captives return home: Israel’s Lapid
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has attended an antiwar rally in Tel Aviv in support of the demonstrators.
“The only thing that strengthens the country is the wonderful spirit of the people who are leaving home today for Israeli solidarity,” he wrote on X. “We will continue to fight until the kidnapped return home.”
