Israel: Protests demanding the release of hostages likely nationwide through end of December /update 2

Additional demonstrations demanding the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip will likely continue nationwide through at least the end of December. Protesters are blaming Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government for stalling ceasefire negotiations and not prioritizing the lives of hostages. Police have occasionally employed water cannons and detained demonstrators after they attempted to block major roads.

Protests have been particularly common in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv on weekends and have typically drawn thousands of participants. However, reports also indicate gatherings on weekdays in cities nationwide. Future demonstrations could focus on traditionally popular protest sites, such as prominent public squares, city centers, and government buildings across the country. In Tel Aviv, popular protest sites include Rabin, Habima, Hostages, and Dizengoff squares. Furthermore, protesters have regularly blocked the Ayalon Highway in Tel Aviv on weekends. In Jerusalem, demonstrations have occurred outside government ministries, near the Prime Minister's Office, and at Ha-Shabat Square.

Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out during the demonstrations. Such confrontations can occur if protesters are overly disruptive or fail to comply with police instructions. Clashes between protesters and supporters of Netanyahu could also occur throughout the country. Localized transport disruptions are likely near all protests.