Many Israelis Express Anger as Peace Breaks Out

Protesters in Tel Aviv Condemn Gaza Ceasefire

by Jason Ditz, November 21, 2012

Israelis were pretty split on the Gaza War right up until it started. With virtually the entire political spectrum jumping on the bandwagon, polls quickly showed an overwhelming majority of Israelis in favor of the war, sometimes exceeding 90 percent.

That ability to quickly rally such a huge majority for a war is certainly expedient, but it caused considerable stir today when the Israeli government agreed to a ceasefire with Hamas, and both politicians and the public began condemning the sudden arrival of peace.

Many in the far-right government in Israel condemned the deal, demanding a full, worldwide war on all terrorists and no restraint under any circumstances. Opposition figures, like Kadima Leader Shaul Mofaz, also lashed the deal, saying he wanted a “decisive” invasion of Gaza.

There were even some anti-peace rallies in Tel Aviv, where demonstrators gathered chanting “no to a cease-fire deal.” Demonstrators interviewed termed the lack of continued war a “mistake” because it made Israelis look scared. Polls tonight showed 70 percent of Israelis remain opposed to the idea of peace with Gaza.

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