Thousands Protest for Safe Release of Israeli Hostages Held by Hamas in Tel Aviv

On Saturday night, thousands of people gathered in Tel Aviv to support the decision to release Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The protesters criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and called for new elections. Banners with messages such as “Negotiate now, resign later” were displayed during the demonstration.

Israeli Khan television reported that Israel is currently not sending a negotiating team to Cairo. They will only send a delegation once Hamas responds to the proposed agreement. The father of one of the hostages expressed his disappointment in the government’s prioritization of personal survival over the safe return of the hostages. He urged the government to agree to a ceasefire in exchange for the release of the hostages.

The brother of a hostage warned that the Israeli offensive in Rafah could be a “death sentence” for the hostages. He criticized Netanyahu, stating that he cannot continue to lead the country with the blood of 132 hostages on his hands. Opposition leader Yair Lapid called on the government to send a negotiating team to Cairo and demand an agreement. The protesters made it clear that they will continue to push for the safe return of the hostages through peaceful demonstrations and calls for government action.