Widespread protests have erupted across Israel in the wake of a tragic failure to secure a ceasefire with Hamas, which led to the deaths of six hostages in Gaza. With an estimated 500,000 demonstrators flooding the streets of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and other cities, the public is calling for the Israeli government to act more decisively to secure the release of the remaining 101 hostages.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, representing the families of those captured in Gaza, has accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of failing to secure a ceasefire deal, which they claim led to the recent deaths of six hostages. According to the forum, these individuals were killed after enduring nearly 11 months of severe mistreatment, including abuse, torture, and starvation in Hamas captivity. Gil Dickmann, a cousin of Carmel Gat—one of the deceased—has called on Israelis to increase pressure on their government to take stronger action.
In Jerusalem, protesters took to blocking streets and gathering outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence, while Tel Aviv’s main highway was overtaken by crowds holding flags bearing images of the deceased hostages, Reuters reported.
Amid escalating tensions in Israel, local media reports confirm that around 29 individuals have been arrested in connection with recent protests. The demonstrations, marked by road blockages, prompted police to deploy water cannons to disperse the crowds.
In response to the crisis, US President Joe Biden has expressed profound grief and anger over the deaths of six Israeli hostages in Gaza, including 23-year-old Israeli-American Goldberg-Polin. Biden vowed that “Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes” and reaffirmed America’s commitment to securing the release of the remaining hostages through relentless diplomatic efforts.
The proposed ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas remains uncertain, heightening pressure on the Israeli government to secure the safe return of hostages. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the killing of hostages, asserting, that those who murder hostages have no intention of negotiating.
The ongoing conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in the deaths of nearly 41,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza health ministry.