It was the symbol of the İmamoğlu operations... Pikachu is now in Israel
In a protest against Israel's attacks on Gaza attended by tens of thousands in Tel Aviv, a person in a Pikachu costume—who became identified with demonstrations in Istanbul—and another protester carrying a Turkish flag were spotted.
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The attacks launched by Israel on the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023, continue with full intensity despite the ceasefire reached on January 10, 2025. This stance by the Israeli government has also caused major reactions within the country. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to break the ceasefire and resume attacks has driven the public to the streets.
Tens of thousands of people gathered on Begin Street and Habima Square in the capital, Tel Aviv, to protest the government. Demonstrators reacted harshly to both the ongoing bombardment in Gaza and the derailment of the hostage exchange agreement.
TURKISH FLAG DRAWS ATTENTION
One of the most striking details of the demonstration was the appearance in Tel Aviv of a protester in a "Pikachu" costume, who was seen at support rallies held for CHP Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu in Istanbul and became viral on social media. Another protester carrying a Turkish flag was also present next to this individual. This detail indicated that an international symbol had left its mark on the demonstration.
''ATTACKS ON GAZA ARE KILLING THE HOSTAGES''
One of the speakers at the protest was Gadi Moses, an Israeli who was released as part of the hostage exchange in Gaza. Criticizing the government in harsh terms, Moses said, "The bombardments on Gaza are killing not only Palestinians but also the Israeli hostages there." Moses stated, "I was there. I heard the sounds coming from the other side of the border. It is something that chokes the throat and paralyzes the soul. The bombardments are causing our brothers and sisters inside to lose all hope and their strength to survive. It is killing them."
Liri Albag, a female soldier who was released during the second phase of the hostage exchange agreement between Hamas and Israel, also spoke at the protest. Albag expressed her disappointment with the following words:
“When the first ceasefire collapsed, I collapsed too. I lost all my hope. Our brothers and sisters are still there, and we cannot remain silent. We cannot accept this situation. They need to return immediately. To be truly honest, every return to war puts them in even greater danger.”
CALL TO THE GOVERNMENT FROM PROTESTERS
Protesters called on the Netanyahu government with banners and slogans. Banners reading "Bring the hostages back," "Return to the ceasefire," and "This war is killing us all" were frequently seen. While there was no conflict with the police during the demonstration, organizers emphasized that the actions would continue until Netanyahu leaves office.