Thousands of People Gather in Israel as Nation Awaits Return of Hostages
Thousands of people gathered across Israel on the eve of a ceasefire deal with Hamas, waiting for the return of hostages held captive for 15 months in Gaza. In Tel Aviv, a large crowd of demonstrators gathered at “Hostages Square,” a site 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 held in Gaza for four months, expressed concerns about the well-being of those still trapped by Hamas. “I’m thinking about in what state they will be when they return,” he said. “They will return in a really difficult state. I hope we can give them all the love and all this embrace.”
A ceasefire deal is expected to release 33 Israeli hostages, with 94 still being held. The Israeli government reports that at least 34 of those held are dead, with more than 150 already returned. The release of the remaining hostages is expected to occur in phases, with the first phase set to last six weeks.
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. A crowd marched through the city, chanting “We want them back alive, not in coffins.”
Einav Zangauker, whose son is held captive by Hamas, urged the nation to ensure that the government does not “blow up this deal.” “I’m calling from here to our beloved hostages – hear our voice, hold onto hope! Soon, you will all be home! We promise you!”
The “Pink Front,” a group of young artists and performers, led chants calling for a comprehensive deal to bring back all hostages. The group used drums and slogans to promote their message, demanding that the government take action to end the crisis.