Thousands of Israeli citizens took to the streets of occupied Jerusalem to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to intensify operations for the occupation of Gaza. On Tuesday night, demonstrators marched toward Netanyahu’s official residence, where they lit fires in front of the building and even set a car ablaze.According to a report published by The Times of Israel on Wednesday (September 3), the protests quickly escalated into violent clashes with police. Protesters also gathered in front of the Knesset building, chanting slogans against the government’s move. Another group blocked a railway line for several hours, prompting police to use water cannons and forcefully disperse them.Demonstrators accused Netanyahu of putting the lives of Israeli hostages held by Hamas at risk. They alleged that instead of negotiating a deal, the prime minister is prolonging the war for political purposes.Notably, discontent has been growing in Israel over Netanyahu’s plan to expand the Gaza City occupation campaign. International media outlets report that around 48 Israelis are still being held hostage in Gaza, with roughly 20 of them believed to be alive.