Thousands of Israelis gathered in central Tel Aviv on Saturday to demand an end to the ongoing war on Gaza and the immediate release of Israeli captives held in the besieged Palestinian enclave. The protests highlighted growing public dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the situation.
Hostages and Missing Families Forum Leads Rally
The protest was organized by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a prominent Israeli campaign group. This was their weekly rally held in “Hostages Square,” located in the heart of Tel Aviv. Families of captives participated, voicing their anguish and calling for action to bring their loved ones home.
Anti-Government Demonstrations Erupt
In addition to the rally organized by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, another anti-government protest took place at Habima Square. The protesters expressed their discontent with the current leadership, specifically targeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Shai Mozes Criticizes Netanyahu
During the protest at Habima Square, Shai Mozes, whose parents had been held captive in Gaza and later released in separate exchanges, addressed the crowd. Mozes criticized Netanyahu, claiming that Israel’s “real enemy” was not Hamas but the Prime Minister himself. He accused Netanyahu of destroying Israel as both a Jewish and democratic state.
Family Members Blame Netanyahu for Prolonging the War
Hamdah Salhut, reporting from Amman, Jordan, shared statements from family members of Israeli captives still held in Gaza. They accused Netanyahu of prolonging the war for personal and political gain. According to Salhut, these family members believe Netanyahu is unwilling to compromise on a ceasefire deal.
Israeli Government’s Stance on Military Action
The Israeli government continues to insist that military action is the best way to secure the release of the captives. Despite calls for a ceasefire, officials argue that expanding operations in Gaza is necessary. This stance, however, has not been well received by the public. Many family members of the captives and a large portion of Israeli society disagree with this approach.
Hostages and Missing Families Forum Criticizes Netanyahu’s Plan
Following Netanyahu’s announcement of an expanded offensive in Gaza, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum condemned the plan. They issued a statement accusing Netanyahu of “sacrificing” those still held captive in Gaza. The forum’s members continue to call for a more diplomatic solution to secure their loved ones’ release.
Protests Planned Across Israel
The protests were not limited to Tel Aviv. According to Haaretz, demonstrations were also planned in other cities, including Jerusalem, Haifa, and Beersheba. Protests were set to take place at dozens of intersections and public spaces across Israel in the coming days, reflecting widespread public frustration.
Hamas Releases Video of Two Israeli Captives
In a related development, Hamas’s armed wing released a video on Saturday showing two Israeli captives alive in Gaza. In the video, one of the captives called for an end to the 19-month-long war. The release of this video has intensified the ongoing debate over the best approach to resolve the conflict and secure the captives’ release.
The protests in Tel Aviv are a clear indication of the growing dissatisfaction among Israelis with the government’s approach to the war in Gaza. The demands for the release of captives and the push for an end to military operations reflect the changing public sentiment. As protests spread across the country, it remains to be seen whether the Israeli government will adjust its strategy.
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