JERUSALEM: Yair Golan, the leader of Israel's left-wing opposition, has issued a call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, asserting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration no longer reflects the majority sentiment of the Israeli populace.

Golan, who heads the Democrats party, emphasized that after over 20 months of ongoing conflict, it is imperative for Israel to end the war quickly.

This statement was made during a media briefing ahead of a crucial parliamentary decision that could potentially lead to a general election.

Golan remarked, "Today the government of Israel does not represent the vast majority of Israelis," highlighting the disconnect between the ruling coalition and public opinion.

His party, which consists of left-wing factions, holds only four seats in the Knesset, Israel’s 120-member parliament, positioning it among the smallest political entities within the legislature.

Nonetheless, in Israel’s coalition-based political landscape, smaller parties can significantly influence political dynamics.

The opposition leader characterized the current government as one of the most right-wing in Israel's history, suggesting that it poses a danger to the democratic fabric of the nation.

He indicated that many Israelis desire to preserve the nation as a Jewish homeland while also ensuring it remains a free, egalitarian, and democratic state.

Golan expressed that a significant majority of Israelis are advocating for an end to the Gaza conflict, the prompt return of hostages taken by Palestinian militants in a single exchange, and the establishment of a national commission to investigate Hamas's unprecedented attacks in 2023. He contended that the Netanyahu administration stands opposed to these aspirations.

The former deputy army chief asserted, "I believe that we can reach a hostage deal in a matter of days," expressing hope that ceasing hostilities could pave the way for alternatives to Hamas within Gaza.

Recent comments by Golan have sparked controversy; he faced criticism for stating that "a sane country ...

does not kill babies for a hobby", reflecting his opposition to the government's military approach in Gaza.

In addition to the calls for peace, Golan indicated that public support exists for legislation compelling ultra-Orthodox Jewish men, who are mainly exempt from military service, to enlist.

This issue has caused tensions within Netanyahu's coalition, with ultra-Orthodox lawmakers threatening to destabilize the government if an agreement is not reached imminently.

Several opposition factions are reportedly aiming to propose a bill to dissolve the Knesset during an upcoming parliamentary session, seeking to leverage the growing discontent among ultra-Orthodox parties.

Golan affirmed, "The vast majority wants new elections as soon as possible," underlining the urgency felt by many in the opposition.