Thousands protest over sudden replacement of Israeli defense minister

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's surprise replacement of Defense Minister Yoav Galant sparked massive protests in downtown Tel Aviv, the capital.

Thousands of people, including members of the hostage-release group, gathered downtown to call for Netanyahu's resignation and an immediate cease-fire.

Some protesters blocked traffic and set fires on the highway.

In a statement, the Hostage-Missing Families forum expressed deep concern over Gallant's dismissal and urged new Defense Minister Katz to prioritize negotiations for immediate humanitarian release.