Demonstrators calling for elections gather for main anti-government rally in Tel Aviv

Demonstrators are gathering in Tel Aviv outside the Kirya military headquarters to protest against the government, demanding early elections.

The protest begins with a drum circle as demonstrators chant a series of songs against the government, with particular focus on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir.

Many of the demonstrators are carrying Israeli flags or signs calling to remove Netanyahu from office. A small number of demonstrators carry signs calling for a ceasefire in Israel’s war against Hamas.

The police have come prepared for the possibility of demonstrators trying to block the Ayalon freeway; dozens of police officers and border police officers are standing by near Democracy Square where fences and trucks have been placed as barricades to prevent demonstrators from entering the Square or going down to the highway.