Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators filled the streets of Israel, particularly in Tel Aviv's "Hostages Square," to demand an end to the Gaza conflict and a deal for the release of hostages held by Hamas. Protest organizers warned that the Israeli government's intention to seize control of Gaza City jeopardizes the lives of approximately 20 remaining captives.
The day of protests coincided with a national strike that disrupted operations by closing roads, offices, and universities across various regions, leading to the arrest of nearly 40 protesters. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the demonstrations, claiming they would only "harden Hamas's stance" and impede the hostage release efforts.
Criticism also emerged from far-right Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich, who labeled the protests as an initiative that supports Hamas's agenda. Tensions escalated when riot police forcibly dispersed protests outside the prime minister’s Likud party headquarters, following what is believed to be the largest protest in nearly two years of conflict. Smaller protests erupted in other areas of the country.
Family members of the hostages spearheaded the national strike, expressing vehement opposition to the war's escalation. Einav Zangauker, a prominent figure in the Hostage and Missing Families Forum and mother of hostage Matan, shared her emotional plea during the Tel Aviv protest, calling for a "comprehensive and achievable agreement" and stating, "We demand what is rightfully ours - our children."
Her passionate words followed the release of a video featuring her son, sparking public empathy and further igniting the protests. The demonstrations arose after the Israeli war cabinet's recent decision to occupy Gaza City prompted condemnations from the UN Security Council, as hostilities have rendered the situation dire for residents.
On the frontlines, at least 40 casualties were reported from recent Israeli airstrikes, intensifying the violence in Gaza's eastern and southern districts. As humanitarian concerns rise, Israel's military has indicated plans to provide shelter supplies to aid agencies in Gaza to accommodate those displaced.
In light of the ongoing conflict, plans for the displacement of over a million residents from Gaza City have stirred significant unease. Reports suggest that around 1.9 million people, or 90% of Gaza's population, have already been forced to evacuate, leading organizations like the UN to express grave concerns over widespread malnutrition. Following Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which resulted in tragic fatalities and hostage situations, the region has entered a critical humanitarian crisis, with the Israeli offensive reportedly claiming over 61,000 Palestinian lives, according to Hamas-run health authorities.
