Jakarta, ThedailyID — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced fresh calls to resign on Thursday after protesters interrupted his appearance at a military officers’ graduation ceremony with anti-government chants.
Attendees shouted slogans demanding Netanyahu step down as he delivered a speech at the ceremony held at the Bahad 1 military base, home to the Israel Defense Forces’ officer training academy.
According to Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth, the chants erupted while Netanyahu addressed graduates during the combat officers’ graduation ceremony.
Despite the protests, Netanyahu defended Israel’s military campaign and regional strategy.
“We are at the height of an ongoing regional war,” Netanyahu said during his speech.
According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu also claimed Israel had “changed the rules of the game in the region,” broken “the wall of fear,” and demonstrated the strength of its military power.
The incident comes as anti-government demonstrations continue across Israel. Protesters have demanded early elections and increased pressure on Netanyahu’s coalition.
Many demonstrators also blame the government for its handling of the Oct. 7, 2023 attack, which triggered Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
Meanwhile, critics have questioned Netanyahu’s approach to the broader regional conflict involving Iran and the United States. They argue that recent U.S.-Iran diplomatic efforts have left Israel increasingly isolated.
The latest protest highlights growing domestic pressure on Netanyahu as his government continues to face criticism over security, the war in Gaza and regional policy.
