Thousands in Tel Aviv Demonstrate for Hostage Release

(MENAFN) Thousands of Israelis gathered in central Tel Aviv on Saturday to demand the return of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, with many urging an end to the ongoing war in the enclave. The protest took place in Hostages Square and included hundreds of family members of the captives, according to reports.

Despite the demonstration, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his stance that the 19-month war would continue until “Hamas's civil and military capabilities are fully eliminated.” In a pre-recorded video message, Netanyahu also mentioned the establishment of “security zones” in Lebanon and Syria, which he claimed violated the sovereignty of both nations.

"Hamas rejected a proposal to release half of the living hostages and many of the bodies of the deceased, demanding an end to the war -- this is unacceptable," Netanyahu remarked.

Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya also announced Thursday that the group was willing to begin “comprehensive package negotiations” with Israel to release all hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, an end to the war, and the lifting of the Gaza blockade.

Netanyahu additionally emphasized Israel’s “full commitment” to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, as negotiations continued between the US and Iran in Rome.

Since the conflict began in October 2023, over 51,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, many of them women and children. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza, while Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice over its actions in the region.
 

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