Trump’s Unexpected Five-Day Hiatus: It’s Not About Iran—Demonstrators ‘Call for Regime Change in Israel’

Dr. Pamelia Riviere

On March 22, 2026, the Times of India reported that protests are escalating in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem as Israelis express their increasing frustration with the ongoing conflict. Demonstrators openly criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing his administration of prolonging the conflict for political gain rather than prioritizing public safety. Protesters cautioned that ongoing strikes on Iran and Lebanon are perpetuating a cycle of violence rather than bringing it to an end. Many demanded elections, peace talks, and an immediate cessation of military actions. As casualties rise and millions are forced into shelters each day, the dissent within Israel is becoming more pronounced, indicating growing divisions regarding the war’s goals and trajectory. 

Protests in Tel Aviv have emerged as Israelis demand an end to the ongoing conflict with Iran and Hezbollah. Amidst this unrest, millions are seeking shelter from the ongoing attacks. The ongoing war has resulted in a harrowing toll, with at least 18 Israelis dead and more than 3,000 wounded in just three weeks. Demonstrators have criticized the government for extending the conflict without a clear timeline or defined objectives, according to reports from Al Jazeera.

Not Iran, But a 'Regime Change' Call in Israel 

 In a powerful display of solidarity, protesters took to the streets of Tel Aviv, calling for an urgent end to Israel's conflicts with Iran and Lebanon. Their passionate voices echoed through the city, demanding peace and a new direction for the nation's future. On Thursday, a large group of demonstrators assembled in Tel Aviv to voice their opposition to Israel's military actions against Iran and Lebanon. As the conflict escalates, millions of Israelis face the daily reality of seeking shelter from a barrage of rockets, missiles, and drone strikes that threaten their safety. Among the protesters was Tsipi Haitovsky, who shared her perspective on the situation, as reported by Democracy Now!. The demonstration highlighted the urgent call for peace and an end to the violence that has gripped the region.

Israeli protesters rally against Netanyahu, calling for immediate elections amidst 'political' turmoil. People gathered near Netanyahu's residence to protest the government's actions, holding signs that read, “Refuse the war and Palestinian lives matter." This demonstration reflected widespread anger, with some protesters being detained by Israeli police. Many expressed the belief that the ongoing war is perpetuating a cycle of violence rather than resolving the conflict. One demonstrator noted that the conflict serves political interests rather than aiding the Iranian people, while another pointed out that decades of war have only resulted in more instability. 

Demonstrators Call Against the Occupation in the West Bank 

Protesters voiced calls for an end to the Israeli occupation in the West Bank and emphasized the need for renewed negotiations and a Palestinian state as essential for long-term peace. Feelings of uncertainty were prevalent, with remarks about the confusion surrounding the war's goals. Participants expressed fatigue from constantly seeking shelter and confusion over shifting war objectives. One protester highlighted the futility of imposing change by force, referencing historical failures in other regions, while others spoke about their deep concerns for the future of Israel. The sentiment among demonstrators was clear: many are against the government's approach, believing that peace is the only viable solution. As the conflict escalates, the growing divide in Israeli society is evident, with more voices calling for change and demanding clarity from leadership. The protests reflect a significant internal pressure on the government as citizens seek a path toward peace and an end to violence.

During the recent demonstration organized by a women's protest group, participants called on the Israeli government to immediately cease hostilities against Iran. They expressed frustration over the lack of transparency regarding the objectives and duration of the war, highlighting that millions of Israelis are currently seeking refuge in shelters amidst the ongoing conflict. The protesters voiced their exasperation with the prolonged state of warfare, which has persisted for over two and a half years. They specifically criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu, accusing him of using war as a political tool to maintain his power at the expense of national safety and security. The protest underscored a collective concern for the future of Israelis and the broader stability of the Middle East, emphasizing the urgent need for an end to the conflict.

Israeli demonstrators openly condemned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing his administration of extending the war for political advantage rather than prioritizing public safety. Protesters cautioned that continued strikes on Iran and Lebanon only perpetuate a cycle of violence instead of resolving it. Many people demanded elections, peace talks, and an immediate ceasefire in military actions. With rising casualties and millions forced into shelters every day, discontent among Israelis is growing louder, highlighting deepening divisions regarding the war's objectives and course.

Netanyahu Expanding the Conflict Across Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran

On Thursday night, Israelis gathered in the streets of Tel Aviv demanding an immediate halt to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of extending the fighting across Gaza, Lebanon, and now Iran, merely to retain his power. Protesters chanted slogans, waved ceasefire signs, and held silent vigils featuring photographs of children killed throughout the region. One demonstrator shared with Reuters that millions of Israelis are currently seeking shelter from Iranian missile attacks, without any clear understanding of the war's objectives, timeline, or what victory truly entails. 

The Women's Protest movement organized the demonstration, which has been leading anti-government protests in Israel for more than two years. Attendees donned masks of Netanyahu and far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir as speakers charged the prime minister with endangering Israeli lives and regional stability for the sake of his political future. Since the initiation of the US and Israeli military campaign against Iran in late February, at least 15 Israelis have lost their lives, while Iran continues to launch missiles into Israeli territory daily. 

This protest reflects a growing division within Israeli society regarding a war that appears to have no end in sight. Despite Netanyahu's public statement this week asserting that Iran can no longer enrich uranium or develop ballistic missiles, his citizens are questioning a matter that his administration has yet to address: What are we fighting for, and when will it conclude, as highlighted by the podcast VERTEX.

Gulf States Feel Vulnerable and Abandoned by the US

In a recent discussion, Alastair Crook highlighted the precarious security situation in the Middle East, especially for Gulf states that have long relied on the U.S. for protection against Iran. He pointed out that the recent Israeli attack on Doha suggests a coordinated effort that likely had prior approval from the U.S. Given that military movements are closely monitored, the attack raised alarms across military channels, indicating a level of collusion or at least foreknowledge. 

This unexpected aggression has left Gulf states feeling vulnerable and reconsidering their security strategies. For years, they believed that aligning with the U.S. to counter Iran would ensure their safety. However, with Israel's surprise actions, including the attack on Doha and a rising military presence near Jordan, these countries now realize that this approach may no longer suffice. The situation prompted significant reactions, such as Egypt deploying Chinese air defences in the Sinai to prevent potential Israeli incursions and facilitate the movement of Palestinians. King Abdullah of Jordan, alarmed by the increased troop mobilizations, reinstated conscription, underscoring the anxiety sweeping the region. 

Crook conveyed that this could signal the initiation of a broader shift in Middle Eastern alliances. With the U.S. security umbrella appearing less reliable, many states may turn to China and Russia, particularly given China's role in facilitating reconciliation with Iran. This shift was evident during a recent meeting, where Iranian officials engaged with parties that had historically opposed them, suggesting a realignment in regional geopolitical relationships. While the immediate outcomes of these developments remain uncertain, the long-term implications could fundamentally alter the dynamics of Middle Eastern politics, moving away from the West and towards cooperation with China and Russia.

Trump's Bold Five-Day Stand: What Does it Mean? 

Recent reports indicate that former President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause in U.S. strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure amidst ongoing talks between the U.S. and Iran. Trump described the conversations as "very good and productive" in a social media post, suggesting that both nations are interested in reaching a deal. However, The Guardian highlights a complex scenario, noting the difficulties Trump faces in managing the situation. The geopolitical landscape is precarious, with fears of escalating tensions that could affect the global economy. Additionally, while Trump claims these discussions are taking place, Iranian officials have denied any such negotiations. 

In response to the ceasefire, the Israeli military has stated it will continue operations in accordance with government directives. Despite Trump's assertion of a temporary pause in strikes on Iranian power plants, there are conflicting reports regarding the nature and existence of the talks with Tehran. Iran has threatened to retaliate against Middle Eastern energy facilities if the U.S. conducts further attacks. Efforts to mediate the situation have involved several countries, including Oman, Turkey, and Pakistan, aiming to end hostilities that have been exacerbated by U.S. actions, especially following recent attacks on Iranian civilians and officials. The role of Israel, in potentially fostering dialogue with Iran, may also be crucial in resolving these tensions.

This illustrates how The Guardian views Trump's five-day pause. If Israeli officials see future US backing as uncertain, with many Americans on both sides questioning the costs of the alliance, there may be an incentive to strengthen their territorial claims. This could clarify the intentions to take control of portions of southern Lebanon and Syria. President Donald Trump has warned of a return to conflict if Tehran fails to negotiate. However, the more probable scenario is less dramatic: indirect or mediated discussions rather than substantial negotiations. 

Sir Keir Starmer's acknowledgment of talks between Iran and the US only confirms that diplomatic efforts are underway, though their extent and nature remain ambiguous and under debate. During this crisis, uncertainty can divide focus. This is significant because, quietly in the background, Israel is implementing actions in the West Bank that transition its occupation toward annexation.

 Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian ambassador to the UK, stated in the Economist last week that the Israeli government intends to deliver a severe blow to Palestinian statehood while the war serves as a distraction. This is a serious accusation, but it is not without justification. The process appears to have started in February, when the Israeli cabinet sanctioned land registration in about half of the West Bank for the first time since 1967.

The temporary pause in hostilities during the ongoing conflict, lasting five days, could potentially escalate into a larger-scale war if all involved parties do not reach a consensus. 

In Israel, there are widespread protests fueled by intense frustration and anger among the populace. As the nation grapples with turmoil, a pressing question looms: Can Prime Minister Netanyahu, with elections approaching, implement significant changes that may be hard to undo, all while cloaked in the urgency of war?

The writer is a freelance analyst.