Roughly 100,000 people rally in Tel Aviv to call on PM, Peretz to quit

Be careful, emotionalism has proven to be a horrible judge of direction. Many decision makers in the past have made mistakes, but because their people were patient, they proved to be the right person for the job. With instant media, people flash to instant anger-- a knee-kerk reaction is foolish and will parylize future heads of state and keep them from doing ANYTHING. You might get not only what you wish for, but the consequences of that wish.

Is to convince the parties of the coalition that it is not in their personal interest to stay with Olmert at the head of the government. If the politicians feel that they have more to lose by staying than by leaving then they will leave the government and the people can decide in the next elections who is worthy of our support. Hopefully this time we will chose with our heads.

I completely understand that Israel cannot afford to lose a war. But Olmert has never been Defence Minister, Peretz has for only a short time. The inadequacy of the IDF in this conflict did not occur on their watch. It is a matter of the IDF command and the Defence Ministers since the withdrawal from Lebanon. "McArtur stated that the only way to prevent war is to be prepared for one." Quite, but again this is not the fault of the Olmert and Peretz. They are only being judged for going to war when they had limited options in the fighting of it. The public demanded they respond militarily. Now condemn them because previous leaders left them with little option but air bombing. The ultimate question is, can Israel defeat a terrorist group in Lebanon "militarily"?, when other groups at war with Israel are the former and current bosses of the PA. If Israel cannot suppress terrorist groups in Gaza and the West Bank, why does it think it has military options in Lebanon?

"Not you and not most of the rest of the world, despite the disproportionate media courage." Oh "God", not the the world does not understand us defence ... in the absence of any surviving other apologetic? I suppose I should ask, if you are Israeli and thus understand them, but you show the required rudeness to be plausible. Yet here am I, aware of the diversity of the Israeli population but their near universal pride in the IDF and how this comes before a fall when their enemies can so easily play them because of it. Too easily provoked at diplomatic cost. Too reliant on a conventional defence myth - the world is aware that conventional military force does not prevail against terrorists. And the Israelis pose as leaders in the fight against terrorists. Yeah right. Is an Israeli trait also stupidity? Pride AND stupidity is a problem. ?Halutz, Peretz, and Olmert kept the infantry in the dark so they could have an `easy` air war with big pyrotechnic displays.? Are you saying the IDF had trained for a ground war against Hizbollah and had plans they could have used. If not, what?s your point ? cowardly evasion?

"a very ignorant post... Yet you challenge not one point made in it. Too hard, because it was based on the facts? Lets guess your arguement, is that it is wrong to question whatever Israel does (even though this topic is about Israelis doing just this). What I have questioned is the public's capriciousness - for demanding resort to force and then complaining that this time they did not get off on it, because the enemy fought back. "you have zero comprehension of missiles falling on yr towns, bombs on yr buses and iranian sponsored lunatics trying to cross yr borders to kill people." Hizbollah is not involved in the suicide bombings in Israel and rained missiles after the air bombing of Lebanon began. And being the "victim" justifies resort to pointless and futile escalation in violence ...? "try to imagine these realities and then consider your options." Taking hits from missiles while bombing the assets of Lebanon did not secure the hostages release.

See Politicians could care less about you the people! They do what they want when then want and we can do nothing.

Israel planned to bomb Lebanon back 20 years way back in 2004 and still stuffed it up. As for Hezbollah hiding behind civilians - that is simply not true and never was. It was Israel murdering children and women mate, and you make me sick to my gut with your ugliness. Thousands and thousands and thousands of people have been slaughtered in Lebanon by Israel over the years, and for what? Some stupid zionist "dream"?

YOU all should have taken to the streets after the failed war! Protest every day until Olmhert resigns - You must get rid of him, you look so weak. Wake up before it is too late.

Not you and not most of the rest of the world, despite the disproportionate media courage. Halutz, Peretz, and Olmert kept the infantry in the dark so they could have an 'easy' air war with big pyrotechnic displays. Enough of these arrogant remarks that "Israelis are the problem".

The mere fact that these two gentlemen want to hold on to their positions in spite of the negative public outcry, marks them as irresponsible and not qualified to hold a senior government post. In a way it is treason. They should be forced out.

I wonder whether the amount of people is in itself a message, and how significant the number is, compared with massive rallies in the past? Can somebody give me an opinion about it?

SHEESH! this guy better quit. at least bush has a conservative base. even the left has abandoned him.

How is it that the Israeli opposition is against all wars but the current one? I don't remember very many Israeli Jews taking to the streets over the summer. And will anyone give Israeli Arabs credit for seeing the folly of Olmert's little war, or publicly apologize for the reckless accusations of treachery against them? I doubt it.

How long until Bibi is PM? During his tenure the Palestinians behaved themselves for the most part and Hizbollah was fairly quiet too.

there is no loyalty so -- no response!

there is no loyalty so -- no response!

"Had this demonstration happened here..." Bush has lost the war in Iraq. I'm sure that a demonstration that calls for more bloodshed in Iraq and more B52 and more destruction will be welcomed by Bush ans his Secret Service. ML seems to forget that the demonstration in TA was not a anti-war demonstration but a demonstration for a bigger and better-equipped IDF that will be able at the next provoqued occasion to alter South-Lebanon and the whole of Beirut into rubbles within a few days.

the headline says it all. read the first paragraph and it says between 100 and 200 thousand people showed up. haartez wants to minimize the number of people who attended. probably because they are intimately involved in the corrupt current government. for shame!

Yonatan By that I mean to rid the electoral system from "Proportional "Representation,to "first past te post System".Rid the small Knesset members to a minimum and enabling you a more satisfactory and balanced type of governing. Each elected member with their own constituencies and surgeries that will be mediate with various disputes,problems and answerable to the welfare of his own constituence.Where they air their grievances,and so on.The said member will be responsible for his actions throughout his tenure.And if he is found wanting,then he/she can be voted out in the next elections. When I mentioned this to my families in Israel they said because of the various religious parties it would not work,or be applicable. It so seems having this form of electoral system for so many decades it has become the norm. How to change it is the problem is beyond me. I fully understand your frustration.Patience....

Why don't they rally like this against the illegal occupation and settlements and the IDF's immoral killing of Palestinians who only want to be free of their government's and army's tyranny over their land and lives? I guess while its happening to someone else -- they close their doors and go on with their business. How immoral that really is. Is it any wonder good people won't stand with them anymore? Except, of course their apologists--that is. Dutch

?A two state solution is coming, it will be imposed by the US if need be? I have no quarrel with this statement, provided Israeli side is protected from any Arab opportunist popping challenges, all the way around equal partner always destined to `make its own bed`. All we need is someone to impose this thought on the Arabs, & the idea of occupying themselves with nothing but making their own bed.

opposing own benefits or sacrificing own good & well being in the name of highly moral `strictly by the book` conduct . That makes up what is known as the part of dysfunctional government apparatus (opposition or contradiction to reality in the name of totally out of place but `popular` predicament. Arik Sharon wisely begun the trend, Olmert simply took it to another, almost borderline level, I do not want to even speculate what level would someone like Livni would have taken it to). ?The fact is Tony it is the rights pathological obsession with squandering essential resources on non essential assets like Ariel that is holding up the show here? In view of all the unquestionable history up until today in its entire REALISTIC context, do you honestly believe that to be the case here? Do you really believe that whatever additional 6% or even 67 borders will fix the problem, or is it simply the first (foundation) step in fixing much bigger Arab grief that is at stake here.

Hello Danite, I have caught your post last night too late to respond, but it has very much interested & urged me to respond. So I would love to take this opportunity to not only simply respond, but with due respect to dissect specifically you questioning my ultra liberal left `smoke screen` & your insistence on the Israeli government far right ideas holding down peace process. I am sure it is still & probably will be for a while relevant to any `change of the guard` subject posted here. ?Excuse me Tony but the right has been in power for years now, the "ultra liberal left has no influence? The right may have technically had been in power, the right`s radical ideas had been gone for years & years. ?Who are these ultra liberal left saboteurs anyway? Again-not who but what, ultra liberal left rubberstamped ideas & beliefs on the world wide state of affairs & conduct, so rooted in now that it forces governments on all levels to at least `keep an eye on it`, in many instances

Mark Having read your last paragraph It warmed my heart see that you approved of Israel's democracy and the freedom of expression you applauded. Did you really mean that in the States it would have been treated as harshly as you implied? Why is that I wonder? In your reply to Kinney however,I came down with a "bump".But you were correct nevertheless... ?

First of all, 'apartheid' is an Afrikaans word meaning 'separateness' and not a Dutch word, even though our languages are quite similar. So much for the semantics! In Dutch self-proclaimed progressive circles the words 'apartheid wall' and 'illegal occupation' are used when speaking about the Israeli-Arab conflict. This hate campaign is led by Gretta Duisenberg, widow of the late president of the European Central Bank. Unfortunately several well-known Dutch Jews, organized in 'A Different Jewish Voice' help to spread these lies about Israel. Ans is just a parrot repeating these lies... ANC terrorists murdered many White farmers and there was the occasional bombing, but as they weren't Muslims, suicide killings were not an item. 'Apartheid' was a segretationist ideology promoting the 'separate development' of the different races. Israel just tries to keep the terrorists out. At the same time many Arabs live in Galilee etc. There is no Apartheid in Israel!

Simply , Hizboulla fighters and learders are much stronger and more honest and have faith in Allah that's why they won ..it's not Olmert's fault ..He started the war because this is what Israelis want, they think it is a picinc!!! Have a wonderful time cousins

Nobody is fault, Powerful nations will not have a guaranty that will be winner in a war. As was shown wars in former Yugoslavia,Ruanda and Iraq what was happen in these countries and the same was happen to Israel. In future any unjustified wars powerful nations will be losers. Please search for a peacful solution.

I completely understand that Israel cannot afford to lose a war. But Olmert has never been Defence Minister, Peretz has for only a short time. The inadequacy of the IDF in this conflict did not occur on their watch. It is a matter of the IDF command and the Defence Ministers since the withdrawal from Lebanon. "McArtur stated that the only way to prevent war is to be prepared for one." Quite, but again this is not the fault of the Olmert and Peretz. They are only being judged for going to war when they had limited options in the fighting of it. The public demanded they respond militarily. Now condemn them because previous leaders left them with little option but air bombing. The ultimate question is can Israel defeat a terrorist group in Lebanon "militarily", when other groups at war with Israel are the former and current bosses of the PA. If Israel cannot suppress tg's in Gaza and the West Bank why does it think it has military options in Lebanon?

Sal You only scribbled a short one,and I will reciprocate in kind,but a bit longer than yours. Where do you think you live,in Iran,Saudi Jordan,Egypt???? Grow up and don't make short comments and run away so quickly.It is a cowardly way to act.

I am a Lebanese Australian and I do believe that peace and co-existance are the only solutions for the Middle East because no side can have the upper hand, and this is what Israel and many Israelis are failing to understand. The days of post 67 war military superiority are over. Do not blame the military failure on Olmert. The times have changed and Israel needs to give peace a chance.

"a very ignorant post... Yet you challenge not one point made in it. Too hard, because it was based on the facts? Lets guess your arguement, is that it is wrong to question whatever Israel does (even though this topic is about Israelis doing just this). What I have questioned is the public's capricousness - for demanding resort to force and then complaining that this time they did not get off on it, because the enemy fought back. "you have zero comprehension of missiles falling on yr towns, bombs on yr buses and iranian sponsored lunatics trying to cross yr borders to kill people." Hizbollah is not involved in the suicide bombings in Israel and rained missiles after the air bombing of Lebanon. And being the "victim" justifies resort to pointless and futile escalation in violence ...? "try to imagine these realities and then consider your options." Taking hits from missiles while bombing the assets of Lebanon did not secure the hostages release.

Olmert and peretz are really stupids, but if they go home...Netanyau may come back and destroy the economy...we dont want to win any war, we dont want wars, we need peace, and social justice...netanyau can't provides us both of them.

I met Dayan in NY, this guy is a danger to our country, he has no clue what he is talking about! He was saying that the US don't even talk to Syria and don't even have an Embassy there, the same day in the news the US embassy in Syria was doing some event... I saw many schmockes in my short life, but no one more stupid than Tafnit!!!!! another comedy! I fought in Lebanon last summer as well and I trully believe that Dayan tries to politicieze the issue and take advantage of our suffering. Disregarding the political parties we simply want Olmert home, and have quick elections!

If anything is "disgusting" is your slanted, bigoted view. Don't know why you come here and make a fool of yourself with your lack of ME knowledge. Can't you be an activist for the aboriginal people. Aboriginals suffering from the genocide, rape and the theft of their lands. I read a report this week that indeginous Australians health is 100 years behind white Australians and suffer the worst health conditions than any other indeginous community in wealthy countries. Shame! Oh, I forgot, you often say that what your ancestors did 100 years ago absolves you of any guilt; your attitude is truly disgusting because you cannot see that Aborigines are still suffering today from what your ancestors did 100 years ago.

Julius Caesar was indeed a great and just leader too, but his tyrrany over the senate resulted in the plot against his life. Augustus Caesar, AKA Octavian, was Caesar's adopted son, who was more astute in his dealings with the senate and brought long term stability and peace to Rome, and he lived to a ripe old age. Almost every aspect of his exceedingly long political career is considered a stellar success, with the notable exception of the defeat and destruction of the Roman legions by the Germans at Teutoberg forest.

Olmert was not PM of Israel very long. It was not his job to have the IDF prepared for military eventualities - that was the job of the military and the Defence Minister. The Defence Minister was an even more recent appointment. The public expected the IDF to be capable of making an effective response. And they demanded a military response. That the only options they had, was air bombing or nothing, left whoever was in office in a compromised position. This position was not of their own making. Blaming them because the IDF myth was exposed is to try and perpetuate the myth by determining on two scapegoats. It's rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic. The PM tried the usual air bombing as Peres did in 1996 in a vain attempt to satisfy the call for toughness. This time there was the missile attack response. The public then demanded more and there was not more available. "They" now have missile deterrent. Changing leaders does not change that, Israelis are the problem.

"The PM was mainly successful" - William Kinney I wonder what your definition of 'unsuccessful' is? Obliterated by a falling meteorite?

Here in the US, the demonstrators would have been herded into a place far from down town and then been assaulted and arrested by the police at the orders of the Secret Service. Nice to see that Israel is still a democracy where the people can peacefully assemble to petition their government to quit.

A strong response to rockets from Lebanon was necessary to inhibit continuing Hezbollah attacks. The other Lebanese know that Hezbollah was targeted throughout Lebanon. Shiites will hesitate to outpour delerious joy at attacks on Israel. True, Nasrallah can use updated Iranian rockets, but that is far less likely to occur due to Israeli success. Rabid Numbers fanatics destroying Arab owned olive groves injure Israel, not the prime minister. Where do you get the idea that Israel failed? A bit frantic, yes, but a success!

Sorry Sami but you will certainly "take it" only there will be no team left! And I do hope there will be something left in heaven for you, after all you are a reject living in the Zionist state and they will never forgive you for staying. Cheers!

So you want Nasrallah's rockets to fall on your house, as long as it is an Arab rocket. You are in Haifa as an Arab Israeli, that lives nice and comfortably in a nice home and you want the rest of the infedels people to go away. I would read what Gilead Sharon wrote in Haaretz few days ago, and you convinced me he is right. Its time for the Arabs Israelis to separate from us.

These protests and political uproar make clear to me that The Moshiac The King The Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson is on his way to redeem G-d's people and bring about the world to come

What you fail to understand is that Israel can't and will not afford loosing a war, or even give the resemblance of loosing a war. Isreal can only louse once, and that's it. McArtur stated that the only way to prevent war is to be prepared for one. Israel not only wasn't prepared for war on three fronts, Israel wasn't prepared for a mini war with Hizballah and now you understand why people are taking to the street. To win the peace with the Arabs you must prepare for war, if they sense you are vulnerable they will not have peace with you.

Per the free speech right and a democratic state they have the right to protest and as they did in a peaceful way. 200, 000.00 is just 4% of the total population. So democratically the express concern ad your leaders are aware of. Period. This time to keep working in progress not starting over again with some people who already go a chance to do some thing and didn?t. Good luck

As much as I'm from the right, Mr. Rabin was my commander and he was the best. He made a couple of mistakes yes. Now you want to talk about king David? He sent a man to his death so he can sleep with his wife. He was the father of the pedofiles at the age of 76 he slept with a child for haven's sake. The issue of his ...... preferences are well documented through out the old books. Rabin is rabbi Akiva in comparison. Maybe they should have called it The Prophets square, then you have a case. Rabin was good man.

most of the people "slaughtered" we either a) Hizbollah dummies launching missiles, or b) dummies that allowed Hizbollah to launch missiles from apartment buildings, near hospitals or from residential areas. some innocent people were killed, but hey, that's the dark side of war. when i was in Israel 3 years ago and was in the Golan, the night's silence was constantly interrupted from gunfire coming from across the Lebanon border. also, if Hizballah cares about Lebanon as much as they claim, why would they risk an Israeli bombardment? who's trying to "slaughter" whom?

home, how many would be left protesting in the square? Truth is Olmert responded to the demands of the Israeli public. Seems he's learned his lesson. Good.

a very ignorant post... you have zero comprehension of missiles falling on yr towns, bombs on yr buses and iranian sponsored lunatics trying to cross yr borders to kill people. try to imagine these realities and then consider your options.

unless we change the system of elections from proportional to regional and persona;, in order to get rid of the small parties and allow large power blocs to form. Rewgional elections will also free us of the central committee system and allow talented politivians to come to the ofre. But most people here are too stupid to understand that.

"you are Europe`s rejects so you get out." Oh really? Are my Moroccan, Libyan, Iraqi and Yemenite relatives thru marriage here in Israel all Europeans? Are the 50% of Israeli citizens from African and Asian countries all from Europe? Maybe you should learn some geography and history, instead of the crap they teach yu in the Palestinian schools.

Sharon always had a majority of some kind, and the referendum against disengagement was non-binding. If Sharon's policies had been responsible for the failure in Lebanon last year, his name would have come up in the Winograd report but it didn't, to Olmert's dismay.

before that. This whole thing stinks left. What is happening in the name of politics is shameful and disgusting.

No, actually, it is our home and has been for a very long time. And Sami, give that "European" crap a rest. The majority of Israelis are and have always been from the region, living for millenia in Syria, Egypt, Iraq, Yemen, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, etc. You are so transparent.

Assassinated politicians should be allowed to rest in peace and not have their names sullied for political after their untimely deaths. Besides, the Oslo Accords were concluded behind Rabin's back, by persons alive today who shall remain nameless.

When will you get it through your thick head that Israel;s treatment of the Palestinian is not Apartheid? The Black Africans in South Africa never tried to conquer the country, never engaged in terror against innocent civilians at bus stops and restaurants, never launched missiles against Joburg or Witwatersrand. Most Palestinians refuse to accept the existence of Israel, They want another Arab statre, but they can't tolerate the existence of one Jewish state. Israel has built a security barrier to keep the Palestinians out and not in. Yes, there is some maltreatment, yes, there is some injustice, but that is what happens in any war. And remember - there never was a State of Palestine, and the Palestinian territories and the borders with Israel are still a matter of dispute.

Because Jake you have put all the right criteria on the ground.A leader like Caesar is what the country needs.One who will cross the Rubicon and say:Veni,vidi,vici........ Let us all hope for the best..

Europeans - the last ones in the world from whom Jews should take advice or criticism. You've made it clear throughout history - with little exceptional windows- what it is you really wish for us.

Who said there was only 100,000 there? That is an absolute lie!!!! I was there and i can tell you that it was definately closer if not more than 200,000 people. I have the footage and pics to prove it.

Israeli public have every right to call for an Israeli military response when Hizbullah crossed the border, kidnapped 2, killed 8, and fired 100 rockets as "a distraction", especially since such a maneuver was attempted 100 times before by Hizbullah. It is the Israeli government's responsibility to choose the response that will bring about a successful result and achieve the stated objectives. It is clear that an air war alone was not the correct option. If Olmert was not in a position to launch the military option successfully, he should not have done it at all. But that's the point. It's like taking an exam you didn't study 1 minute for. He was unprepared. Or do you think you know more about Israel than the Winograd report?

What if Natanyahu ordered the war on Lebanon? Do you think the results would have been any different? How could the war monger Natanyahu played it differently? Olmert is just an easy scapegoat. YOU WOULD STILL HAVE LOST THE WAR WITH HIZBOLLA REGARDLESS OF WHO WAS IN CHARGE.

You sure like to talk. Apparently the Druze and Circassians don't agree with you. They preffer to live under the Jews. "The rejects of Europe" - funny that people of the exact same religion were "rejected" from the whole Arab world and Africa too. I wonder why they would decide to go to Israel?

sami Remember who you are and remember it is neither your country,or any of your so-called ancestors who flocked from the Arab countries. Get it right once and for ALL.......

That was a good one Ronnie! So true!

WHO PRAY DID CALL SHARON "OUR KING"?THEN,WHEN HE DECIDED TO CEDE GAZA AND GUSH KATIF,THE TIDE TURNED AGAINST HIM.BUT WHO ELECTED HIM? AND DUE TO HIS SUDDEN STROKE YOU HAVE OLMERT AND "CO"AND BY ASSOCIATION NOW OLMERT,PERETZ, NOT TO MENTION HALUTZ. THINK BEFORE YOU VOTE NEXT TIME,AND DON'T BE TOO HASTY. WHAT OVADIA BEN AVRAHAM SAYS IS TRUE. SUCH A BIG SHOW WITH THE BANDS ET AL,AND THE LEADERS ARE STILL SITTING PRETTY....

I think, Olmert is a good PM and elections now would be bad for Israel.In Olmert's term, economy soared, Palestinian terrorism was effectively crushed and though there were indeed many mistakes in Lebanon war, it was still Israel's victory: it established unprecedented calm along the northern border and made Lebanese government for the first time to take responsibility over the south of Lebanon. This victory could have been more impressive had the infantry entered Lebanon and held territory there. It was mistake to overly rely on the airforce, which is unfit to fight against gangsters, who hide behind the skirts of women. This strategy was ineffective: it didn't succeed to kill many terrorists or stop their rocket fire and it was cruel, because of too many civilian casualties. The responsibility for this failure is, in my opinion, on the Headquarter, specially the PM is inexperienced in warfare. So, my sympathies are with Olmert. But I doubt he'd be able to stay at office.

Giving the stage to Meir Shalev and his leftist vitriol has spoilt everything. His speech was shameful, rich in demagoguery and cheap slander. Include me out.

Forget about the endless political and frankly tiresome, boring tosh, end the occupation. You know it makes sense. Luvvly jubbly

you are Europe's rejects so you get out.

Olmert only came to power because of Sharon's health problems. He would probably never have made it on his own merits. The left and the right protest against Olmert now, but will they be able to offer a real alternative with a working majority in the Knesset? Israel seems to have the same political situation as Germany and the Netherlands: the majority is not satisfied with the status quo, but neither the right nor the left can get a majority in Parliament. Quo vadis Israel?

I hope these protesters are prepared to accept that fact. What will happen next?

no Bibi to replace Olmert. Thanks.

The Israeli peoples pride was hurt when Hamas successfully attacked IDF positions and took prisoners. They demanded the government allow the IDF to teach them a lesson. So there was bombing in Gaza and troop activity in Gaza. Knowing how Israel would respond when they did the same Hizbollah made it's play. And predictably the Israeli public again demanded an IDF bombing and troop movement into Lebanon. That Hizbollah did not fear that gave them no cause to pause and the government followed their lead. The fault is not just with the current government it is with an ignorant and capricious Israeli public who pressure their government into poor option taking because they have a misplaced sense of pride in casual resort to use of military force. The resort to use of force in Gaza was wrong - morally and diplomatically. That the same response came unstuck in Lebanon and the Israeli public did not get some macho boost fix from it, was not why this was also wrong.

Haaretz reports 100,000. Other news services are reporting 200,000. That's a BIG difference!

OLMERT AND PERETZ RESIGN NOW! YOU ARE LIARS AND CORRUPT! YOU WILL SOON FIND YOUR DOWNFALL!

is israels greatest strength and the lack of democracy the greatest weakness of the Arabs.It is high time the israeli people take matters into their hands and force these fools out! Time for new elections to clean house and clear the air.Well done People of Israel!

please

Everyone is a maven.We are jews.Every one of us is a consultant. Millions of consultants.Millions. But not one idea of what 'sufficient force' would have been acceptable to defeat Hizbullah.

You can get out together with Bishara.

If it makes you feel better, you can compare Israeli Labor/Likud/Kadima to Palestinian Fatah/Hamas until the cows come home. There is no parallel and no comparison and no equivalent.

Sharon didn't even have a majority in his own cabinet until he fired two ministers to MAKE a majority. He didn't have a majority in his own party...remember the referendum on the disengagement that was 61% against which he promised to abide by and then ignored. STOP KIDDING YOURSELF!

As Patty Smith used to sing: people have the power! And in Rabin Squared you should have sang this song out loud!!! Long Live Israel and its beautiful people! Bravi!

I do not see that anything good will come from these protests, which are orchestrated by miniscule opposition groups with their own agendas and little intrinsic support. Dare I say, Israel needs its own Augustus Caesar, who will lead the country, end the destructive factionalism in the Knesset while ensuring the rights of the people, fight rampant poverty, sweep out corruption from the highest levels of government, restore the prestige of the army, respect the religious traditions of the country, and act as a capable commander in chief in times of war. The name Augustus Caesar may not please some who cringe at the thought of Roman-era imperialism, but he brought the kind of peace, stablility, and security to Rome that Israel now needs, and he was much loved by all (not least including the Jews).

....for bibi, thanks god. and i think this was the first left wing demonstration in wich effi eitam participated.

Israeli's overwhelmingly supported destroying Lebanon and are pissed off because more innocent people were not slaughtered. So what do they do? Protest about a loser to try and get someone in who can win the next war and slaughter more innocent people. Disgusting.

I am sorry, but you are not completely correct. The people in the general elections voted for Sharon because he declared (what was thought of as) clearly he was opposed to the idea of "disengagement" The Likud voted in a referendum promoted by Sharon that they were against "disengagement" The polls at the time were at the +/-50% because of the bombardment and demonization of the press against the "settlers" and the "religious" segment of the population. The propaganda delivered by the media which claimed to be educating the public in order to make informed decision, was beyond anything that could be described as reality. The promises and lies that came from the government to assure the public at large that those expelled would become very wealthy with the attempt to cast an entire segment of the population as simply greedy money grubby Jews. All of which was supported by this newspaper and the mainstream press. For you to claim that the public was willingly for it. No

On the one hand thousands attend the demonstration to demand Ohlmert and Peretz's resignation from both the left and right of the political spectrum. On the other hand both sides wish to make political capital of the Vinograd report. Logic demands that both these leaders should resign because of the conclusions of the Vinograd commission. If the two leaders do resign and general elections are declared, the results will be just as confused and inconclusive as before. The same wheeling and dealing will occur and the new PM will be Bibi Netanyahu. Is this what the left wing want? They are falling into a trap by joining with the right wing to demand the resignation of Olmert and Peretz. They should have stayed away from the demonstration.

With over a 100,000 protesting and this Idiot Tal Zilberstein advises Olmert not to resign shows just how out of touch the Kadima Party is with the wishes of the Israeli People. This whole Kadima party needs to be brought down and thrown out of office as soon as possible. To make Iisrael suffer and rise up to this level and not to be able to read the handwriting on the wall is shameful and a embarrassment to the Israeli people. NEW ELECTIONS MUST BE HELD ASAP. THIS KADIMA PARTY HAS LOST ALL FAITH OF THE ISRAELI PEOPLE. OLMERT INCASE YOU DON'T GET IT THE ISRAELI PEOPLE ARE SAYING RESIGN NOW OR WE WILL THROW YOU OUT OF OFFICE

The Sharon government had a firm majority for its rule, not just in the Knesset, but in the people. So did the withdrawal from Gaza. Olmert has lost the support of the people and only has his majority in the Knesset to protect him. He will not stand. Too many politicians have too much to gain from his downfall.

Yes. You are right Israel did lose the war and expect the next rocket to fall on your house. That will make you truly happy and it will also prove your point! Cheers!

Get the Hell outta here. Peretz living at home in Sderot would do more for Israel's defense that anything else he could do.

The people may want change, however the political system - the way elections are held and candidates are selected and appointed is rotten to the core. There will be no change. One bad apple replaced by another. There are no honest graft free politicos left. It would be better to elect only teachers or hair dressers than what you have to choose from today. Also, keep in mind Kadima was voted in with a landslide. All who voted for it should be disqualified because they chose inept leaders. Those voters were fools and should not be entrusted with a vote next time. Not very likely ist it? Of course not. The present leaders are good, they are also human as are the electorate. It's equivalent to the Palistinians electing Hamas over the corrupt Fattah. Everyone says they deserve what they get because they support honest "terror" instead of corruption. Not really, they are good people too.

I am a member of the "orange" camp-right-wing-religious-settler type. I attended rallies bigger than this one to save Gush Katif. The Gov't and Knesset members couldn't have cared less, even though the Likud MK's broke their election promise not to destroy the Gush. Everyone on the Left said "the only thing that matters is 61 votes in the Knesset-that is democracy". Well, Olmert has 61 votes so he is safe. Almost all were hand picked by Sharon or Lieberman. They have no contact with or responsibiliity with the public. Had the rally gotten 1 million people, then they might be nervous but since this only got 100,000 from BOTH the Left AND the Right together, Olmert can assume the public is basically apathetic. Thus, he can stay in power, line his pockets and continue to drag Israel into the abyss. Even if he was ousted it would simply mean a game of musical chairs and the same post-Zionist corrupt Kadima gang would still be in power. Thus, until the people really wake up Olmert canstay

Only 100,000 people showed up and want me to resign. There are over 7 million in the country - that means 6,900,000 must not want me to leave. I will humbly follow the lead of the majority and stay in office. See how smart I am! This is how I am able to run the country! I'm a genius!!!! Your PM (still not indicted for any rotten thing I did - cause I'm a freaking genius!!!), Ehud

How right you are.

Who counted the 80,000 in attendance?...No alternative numbers from the police reported?... No politicians willing to go out on a limb and appear at the rally?... Olmert and Kadima appear safe for now.

You are the only one laughing.

Arutz 2 reports 150,000 at the rally with many people still on the way to the square. For Israel this is a huge gathering. Especially so that we had extremely hot weather today (high 30s).

The Israeli politicians have always had their backside strongly glued to their chair. In the past, it took quite a long time to remove Golda (after the 1973 war fiasco), Sharon (after the first Lebanon war) etc., but large demonstrations and popular demand finally did it. Rabin, perhaps the only decent Israeil PM, resigned once because of "corruption" (a dollar account) that seems today a joke, compared to what is going on (massive money embezzlements, connections with organized crime, rape....). Unfortunately, he was removed from power, in his second term, by a murderer - over a political issue. Kadima everybody, let's get rid of all these criminals. We have the power! This is not a political matter, it's a question of our democracy.

You wrote "Rabin Square", but really it is still called "Kings of Israel Square". The Kings of Israel (Shaul, David, Shlomo etc. )were far greater than Rabin any day.

FOREIGN MONEY? PERSONS WITH HIDDEN AGENDAS. SUBTERFUGE OF BRINGING IN NOW THE PEOPLE. WHO ARE THE PEOPLE. MEDIA HAS PREPPED THE WHOLE THING AND THIS HAS BEEN PLANNED SINCE THE WINOGRAD WAS ESTABLISHED KNOWING THAT ONE ALTERNATIVE WAS THEY WOULD NOT RESIGN. EVERYTHING IS WORKING ACCORDING TO THE PLAN MY EMPEROR.

I am so shocked and saddened. Have a nice "political but apolitical" convocation with pop artists. Hope you all feel better that you have "done something" (but actually nothing). The reason for the lack of leadership in Israel is clear: you don't want a leader, and frighteningly perhaps you will not get one. It is a tragedy of, shall we say, Biblical proportions. I pray that G-d is merciful and less narcissistic than you.

Oy vayzmere, when will the people get it? This is no time for "purity", the people being "above politics", and all that. There is no escape from politics. If this huge rally is disassociated from politics what will be gained? A giant burst of sychronistic healing, as they said in the movie "Heathers"? The rally calls for the resignation of the Prime Minister. That's not political? They are afraid to show some choices for who might replace the PM? Get real folks! This is for the life of our country! Let the Opposition leaders and whoever else wants to speak! Anything less is turning the rally into a victory for Olmert! Now there will be nothing but numbers for the press to report -- and no traction for the anti-Olmert movement tomorrow morning. What a colossal waste. Good going guys!

Good initiative! Make as much loud sounds as you can! So many Israeliers are fed up with the way their country is governed. Corruption, stealing, sexual harassment a long list, wars, stealing land of Palestinians, a long list! South Africa under apartheid is an example for the Israelian goverment that it WILL AND CAN NOT LAST. You will get the final bill sooner or later. Israel wake up!

I meant "fortune". If can't spell, how will I ever be able to make it on Ha'aretz?

As it already appears that the majority of politicians are going to hang onto their powers and perogatives at all costs and back the continuing governance of the Olmert administration, the grass roots movement will hopefully focus just as much on the quality of the dialogue between its differing views on all issues as well as the immediate issue of getting politicians to own up to their responsibilities and their failures. We mustn't allow hackneyed and hidebounded divisions to waste this opportunity. B'hatzlacha Rabba!

Unbelievable!!! For years, it seemed impossible, that the left and right could agree on something. Now Ehud has united the whole people....against him. We must learn an important lesson here. Why did it take a war to do this? And also, let us pray that cooperation will continue. After all, we are all brothers!! Also Ehud is our brother too!! Let us remember he did his best, it's just it was not good enough!!

For those who do not know there is, on Kikar Rabin, a smallburger bar called "Magic Burger". It does a damn good burger (although the keves can be a bit greasy) and I was intending to go tonight. This planned outing will now have to be put off because of some protest against Olmert. Now look, the man has buggered up a war, taken many of us out of our homes and jobs to fight that war for him, brought my country into international disrepute and generally proven to be pretty crap across the baord, but does he also have to ruin my trip out for a good burger! Would anyone mind putting the rally off until tomorrow, when Magic Burger will be closed for Shabbat or, alternatively, recommend me another good burger place. I hear Burger Bar 39 on Ben Yehuda is pretty good. Thanks! :)

Years ago, I once sold ice cream at Harvard Stadium during a summer exhibition game between the Boston Patriots and the Baltimore Colts. I did well and made about $16, as I recall. I am sorry that I didn't keep up that concession because I could make a fortunate tonight at this useless rally. Lemon Popscicles anyone?

half a million will still show up

The chairman of the Hebrew University Students' Union is named Yakir Segev, not "Yakir Aviv" as written in your story. Cheers! Mati

The worst of it is is that we actually think like peasants who live under a lord! We're not! We are a democratic country, and it is pathetic that we still think the master should take care of us and all we need to do is keep out of his way. For the love of Heaven, you've got a democratic country - start using it!! Demand responsibility and accountability from your elected officials! But if all a population wants to do is grab a good time while they can, abandoning the affairs of state to politicians who - like everybody else - want to grab a good time while they can, what do you expect? Every vote counts, every action taken in favor of society helps. We're all in this together - don't let the government divide us up into sectors and convince us that our individual interests conflict - no more divide and conquer! We must help ourselves, because a people get the government they deserve, so lets show we deserve better that what we've got now!

In a democracy all power comes from the people and has to remain with the people. I hope Israelis will be as successful in Rabin Square as East Germans were in Leipzig who toppled their communist government by mass demonstrations under the motto WE ARE THE PEOPLE. Today is one of the most important days in Israeli history as it will show who is in charge: the people or the mandarins. I keep my fingers crossed for you!

Oh dear if i was Mr Olmert Or Mr Peretz i would be worried. The peasents are revolting and demanding your resignations. Start working on your resumes, im sure Mr peretz you could get a job as a taxi driver - LOL. The Israeli public deserves better, enough of these wannabe politicians,your low level politics and corruption, enough is enough !

WONDERFUL NO POLITICIANS. The nation is tired of thier lies and false promises.Will attend the demostration Let us sing HATIKVA again and get rid of the corrupt political arena

Let "only the voice of the people" be heard. Let us all come together, whether right, left, religious or secular and rid ourselves of those who deny us honest, decent and competent government. Let's take back our government from these self centered parasites desperately holding onto their seats. Elelections now!