Thousands protest in Israel against Gaza expansion plan

New Delhi, Aug 10: Thousands of demonstrators have rallied across Israel to oppose the government’s plan to expand military operations in Gaza, the BBC reports. The protests come after Israel’s security cabinet approved five principles to end the war, including taking “security control” of the Gaza Strip. Among those protesting were relatives of hostages still held in Gaza, who fear the expanded offensive will endanger their loved ones. “We want the war to end because our hostages are dying there, and we need them all to be home now,” one protester in Jerusalem told the BBC.

Another participant, a former combat soldier, said more than 350 soldiers who served earlier in the war are now refusing to fight in what they call “Netanyahu’s political war.”

The BBC notes that the Israeli prime minister has defended the plan, insisting it will help secure the hostages’ release, while Israeli media report that the army’s chief of staff has privately warned a full occupation of Gaza would be “walking into a trap.” The UN has also warned of “catastrophic consequences” for civilians and hostages. International reaction has been critical, with the UK, France and Canada condemning the move and Germany announcing a halt to military exports to Israel. The UN Security Council is set to meet to discuss the situation.