Protesters in Israel Demand Ceasefire and Release of Captives
Thousands of Israelis gathered in cities across the country on Sunday, demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the safe return of over 200 captives held by Hamas since the October 7 attacks.
TEL AVIV – Thousands of Israelis gathered in cities across the country on Sunday, demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the safe return of over 200 captives held by Hamas since the October 7 attacks. Chanting "Stop the war" and "Bring them back," the demonstrators criticized the government’s handling of the conflict, calling for urgent diplomatic action to end the bloodshed.
The protests come as the Israeli death toll from Hamas’s attacks has reached 1,139, while Gaza’s Ministry of Health reports over 46,565 Palestinian fatalities since the onset of the conflict. Many protesters carried signs and photographs of the captives, including children and elderly individuals, urging the government to prioritize their release in ongoing negotiations.
Families of Captives Speak Out
The protests were led by families of the captives, who made emotional appeals for their loved ones’ safe return. "We want our voices to be heard," said one mother holding a picture of her son. "No more war. We need peace and their freedom."
Broader Public Sentiment
Criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is growing as citizens question the military's continued operations in Gaza amidst the humanitarian toll. “This war is destroying us, not just Gaza,” said one protester in Tel Aviv.
Meanwhile, international calls for a ceasefire are intensifying, with nations urging Israel to engage in meaningful dialogue to address the crisis.
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