Israeli Government
What are Israelis protesting for 500 days after the October 7 attack?
Thousands of Israelis have taken to the streets of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv demanding their government secure the release of 73 hostages still held in Hamas custody. The protests mark 500 days since the devastating October 7 attack, with demonstrators gathering outside Prime Minister Netanyahu's residence, where they chanted slogans calling for the release of all hostages. The protests feature powerful imagery, including mock cages, to represent the plight of those still in captivity and highlight the experiences of previously released hostages.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)
WION
00:10 - 00:33
What is the Israeli government's stance on Hamas in Gaza amid public pressure?
Amidst mounting public pressure, the Israeli government has maintained a firm position, declaring it will not accept the continued presence of Hamas or any other similar group in the Gaza Strip. This resolute stance comes as the government faces increasing domestic demands regarding the hostage situation. The government's position reflects its security priorities despite thousands of Israelis protesting in major cities, calling for Prime Minister Netanyahu to secure the release of 73 hostages held by Hamas since October 7. This tension between domestic humanitarian concerns and security objectives characterizes Israel's approach to Gaza cease-fire negotiations.
Watch clip answer (00:07m)WION
01:16 - 01:24
What is the timeline for Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon according to the November truce?
Under the November truce, Israeli troops were initially granted about 60 days to withdraw from southern Lebanon, where they had been conducting a ground offensive against Hezbollah fighters since early October. This withdrawal deadline was subsequently extended until February 18th. The extension was agreed upon by Israeli and Lebanese officials, along with foreign diplomats, who anticipated that Israel would maintain some military presence in the region. This withdrawal follows Israel's military operations in southern Lebanon, which had been ongoing as part of their conflict with Hezbollah forces.
Watch clip answer (00:21m)
WION
03:25 - 03:46
What is the Israeli government's stance on Hamas's presence in Gaza?
Amidst mounting pressure, the Israeli government has firmly stated that it will not accept the continued presence of Hamas or any other group in the Gaza Strip. This position comes as Israel is completing its withdrawal from Lebanon despite violations of agreements, specifically mentioning Hezbollah's presence south of the Litany River as a basic violation. The government's stance appears to be resolute even as they handle multiple fronts, including the situation in Lebanon where they note that full implementation of agreements by Lebanon would eliminate the need for continued military presence. This hardline position on Hamas in Gaza remains central to Israel's security policy.
Watch clip answer (00:38m)WION
01:16 - 01:55
What are Israelis protesting for in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv?
Thousands of Israelis have taken to the streets of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv demanding their government secure the release of 73 hostages still held in Hamas custody. The protests mark 500 days since the October 7 attack, with demonstrators gathering outside Prime Minister Netanyahu's residence. Protesters chanted slogans calling for the release of all hostages, highlighting the ongoing human crisis amid ceasefire negotiations. The demonstrations represent growing public pressure on the Israeli government to take more decisive action to bring home those who remain captive.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)WION
00:10 - 00:33
How does the Israeli presence in Lebanon affect the ceasefire along Israel's northern border?
Israel has conducted a partial withdrawal from Lebanon but maintains five observation posts in the south, which Lebanon considers a violation of the ceasefire and plans to appeal to the UN Security Council. The Lebanese government fears this 'temporary presence' could become a permanent occupation. Israel justifies its continued presence as necessary to prevent Hezbollah from returning to the area, claiming they will withdraw once the Lebanese army is ready to take control. Despite these tensions, the ceasefire is likely to hold as Hezbollah has been significantly weakened during the war and appears unwilling to escalate the situation over this issue.
Watch clip answer (01:00m)
CBS News
00:36 - 01:36