Since the onset of the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip nine months ago, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced numerous challenges. These range from the unresolved issue of hostage returns despite negotiations and mediators, to ongoing fighting on multiple fronts and protests at home, alongside accusations of betrayal. In light of this situation, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has decided to support his Prime Minister, stating that something terrible is happening.
Following a ceremony in Jerusalem, Herzog urged Israelis to tone down inflammatory statements and accusations of treason among political opposition, according to Israeli Channel 13. He also warned that verbal abuse could escalate into physical violence if left unchecked, referencing the overwhelming public discontent within Israel regarding the government and the issue of prisoners in particular.
He expressed concern that when groups incite and accuse each other of attempting to undermine and destroy Israel, it is clear that something terrible is happening which starts with verbal violence and will not end there. This announcement followed Netanyahu’s remarks during a celebration for Book Week at the President's residence, where he noted that he had repeatedly been horrified by the most appalling and hate-filled words over the past weeks.
On Sunday evening, a video surfaced showing Ayala Metzger, wife of Yorum Metzger—a detainee who was killed due to Israeli strikes on Gaza—telling a crowd that if the remaining prisoners are not returned, "we will wait for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with a noose." It is worth noting that protests in Israel have not subsided, particularly regarding the prisoners’ issue, and have been met with significant police violence following angry statements.
Earlier on the same day, the police launched an internal investigation against an officer filmed insulting a protester in Jerusalem. Netanyahu condemned the violent statements against hostage families and grieving families, as well as against the President, military leaders, security agencies, and officials. Simultaneously, Netanyahu himself faced mass protests from extremists against their conscription into the military after the Supreme Court effectively annulled the long-standing exemption previously granted to them. Efforts to maintain this exemption have stirred resentment among many Israelis who typically serve in the military, particularly as soldiers continue to be killed in the ongoing war in Gaza.
