Thousands Throng Jerusalem to Oppose Netanyahu's Gaza Expansion War Plan
JERUSALEM (AP) — Thousands of protesters gathered in Jerusalem on Wednesday to express their opposition to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to expand the war in Gaza, a move that has sparked widespread condemnation from around the world.
The protest, which drew thousands of people from across Israel and Palestine, was a show of force against Netanyahu's proposal to annex large swaths of the Occupied Palestinian West Bank. The plan, which has been met with fierce resistance from Palestinians and international leaders alike, has raised concerns about the escalating violence in Gaza and its potential consequences for regional stability.
"We've had discussions on this issue with the prime minister, and there will be a decision," said Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, who spoke to reporters after meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. "I don't have to elaborate."
Cohen's statement came as reports emerged that the Trump administration would not intervene if Israel were to declare sovereignty over much of the West Bank. The move has been seen as a green light for Netanyahu's government to push forward with its annexation plans, despite warnings from international leaders about the potential consequences.
The number of dead in Gaza continues to rise, with at least 87 people killed in air strikes across the territory over the last 24 hours, according to local officials. The Gaza health ministry also reported that five people had died during the same period due to famine and malnutrition.
Against this backdrop, Netanyahu has dug in deep, saying he would choose "victory" over any other consideration. However, his stance has been met with widespread criticism from around the world, including from European leaders who have called for a return to negotiations between Israel and Palestine.
The international community has long been concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, where poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to basic services have pushed many families to the brink. The annexation plan has only exacerbated these concerns, with many fearing that it could lead to further displacement and violence.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, international leaders are urging Netanyahu's government to reconsider its plans and engage in meaningful negotiations with Palestine. However, it remains to be seen whether this will happen, given the prime minister's determination to push forward with his annexation plan.
The next few days will be crucial in determining the course of events, as Netanyahu's government is expected to make a decision on the annexation plan soon. The international community will be watching closely, hoping that a more peaceful and diplomatic solution can be found to address the long-standing conflict between Israel and Palestine.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
