On Saturday night, thousands of people gathered in Tel Aviv to express their support for the decision to release the Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The protesters were critical of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and called for new elections. Banners with messages such as “Negotiate now, resign later” were displayed during the demonstration.
One of the hostage’s fathers expressed his disappointment in the government’s prioritization of personal survival over the safe return of his child. He urged the government to agree to a ceasefire in exchange for the release of the hostages. According to Israeli Khan television, Israel is currently not sending a negotiating team to Cairo. They will only send a delegation once Hamas responds to the proposed agreement.
The brother of one of the hostages warned that if Israel continues its offensive in Rafah, it could be a death sentence for them. He criticized Netanyahu, stating that he cannot continue to lead the country with blood 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 their loved ones’ safe return through peaceful demonstrations and calls for government action.
