JERUSALEM (AP) – Thousands of Israelis renewed weekly demonstrations against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday, demanding the resignation of the long-time leader over allegations of corruption against him and his alleged handling of the coronavirus crisis.
Protesters had signs saying “Go” and “Bibi, let go of my people,” referring to Netanyahu by his nickname.
The protest in a Jerusalem square near Netanyahu’s official residence comes as Israel is the center of its third national closure, which was recently taken to blind schools and as the country moves forward with a world-leading vaccination campaign. . Netanyahu’s trial was due to resume this week, but was postponed indefinitely amid stricter restrictions.
Netanyahu has been charged with allegations of bribery, fraud and breach of trust related to three lengthy investigations. He has denied any crime and says he is the victim of a “witch hunt” by hostile media, law enforcement and judicial officials. Protesters argue that Netanyahu cannot properly lead the country while under indictment.
Israel has experienced a recent increase in cases despite triggering one of the fastest vaccination campaigns in the world. The country has administered the first dose of vaccine to nearly 20 percent of its population, and Netanyahu said Thursday that Israel has gotten enough vaccines to inoculate the entire adult population by the end of March.
Netanyahu has placed the vaccination campaign at the center of his re-election campaign that same month. On March 23, Israel will hold its fourth national vote in less than two years. Meanwhile, he has called on the Israelis to make “one last great effort” to stop the transmission following tightened restrictions.