Protesters clash with police as Netanyahu faces backlash over Gaza and intelligence chief

On March 20, 2025, significant protests erupted in Israel as demonstrators opposed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's intention to dismiss Shin Bet head Ronen Bar. The protests were not only focused on Bar's ousting but were also fueled by widespread anger regarding Netanyahu's decision to resume military actions in Gaza after a two-month ceasefire. These policies have antagonized many within Israeli society, as 59 Israeli hostages remain in the Gaza Strip. Protesters expressed serious concerns that the government's actions are leading the country towards a dictatorship, raising alarms over the treatment of hostages and a perceived neglect of crucial national issues. The demonstrations included clashes between police and protesters, particularly in Jerusalem, where hundreds attempted to breach security barriers leading to Netanyahu's official residence. The Israeli police's response included the deployment of water cannons and multiple arrests, indicating an escalating situation. During the protests, participants voiced an underlying fear of an erosion of democratic values amid what they perceive as increasing authoritarianism under Netanyahu's leadership. Tensions have been high since Netanyahu's return to power at the head of a right-wing coalition in late 2022. Prior to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Israelis had been participating in regular protests against proposed legal reforms aiming to limit judicial authority, which many viewed as threats to democracy. The resurgence of military operations, coupled with the ongoing hostage situation, has further complicated the political landscape, uniting various factions of the opposition against Netanyahu's leadership. In response to the growing unrest, the Israeli Cabinet is expected to formalize the dismissal of Ronen Bar, a move that underscores the rift between Netanyahu's administration and key security figures. The tensions reflect deep societal divisions regarding both domestic governance and military strategy, suggesting that the protests may continue as more citizens voice their discontent with the current administration's path forward.