Thousands of people gathered across Israel on the eve of a ceasefire deal with Hamas, waiting for the release of hostages who have been held captive for 15 months in Gaza. In Tel Aviv, demonstrators gathered at “Hostages Square,” where families of the captives have held rallies for over a year, calling for the government to negotiate the release of all hostages.
Luis Har, a former hostage who was held for four months, expressed concern for the well-being of those still trapped by Hamas, fearing they would return in a difficult state and in need of emotional support.
Thirty-three Israeli hostages are expected to be released during the first phase of the ceasefire deal, which is set to last six weeks. However, it is unclear if all of them are still alive, as Hamas and its allies still hold 94 of the 251 people taken during the October 7 attack on southern Israel.
Anti-government protesters also gathered in Tel Aviv, calling for an end to the war and for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to resign. “We want them back alive, not in coffins” was the chant as marchers held up banners and waved Israeli flags.
Einav Zangauker, whose son is held captive by Hamas, called on the nation to ensure the government “does not blow up this deal” and implored her son and others to “hold onto hope.” The “Pink Front,” a group of young artists and performers, led chants for a comprehensive deal to bring back all hostages.
As Israel awaits the release of its hostages, the nation is bracing for the potential challenges that will come with reuniting families who have been torn apart for nearly a year and a half.