Hundreds of thousands of individuals gathered in Israel recently to protest the ongoing Gaza war and advocate for the release of hostages held by Hamas. The largest turnout occurred in the “Hostages Square” in Tel Aviv, where organizers expressed concerns that the Israeli government’s plans to take control of Gaza City jeopardize approximately 20 hostages.
As part of the protests, a one-day national strike resulted in the closure of various roads, offices, and universities in certain regions, leading to the arrest of nearly 40 individuals. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the protests, suggesting they may strengthen Hamas’s position and hinder the release of hostages.
Support for the protests came from family members of the hostages and those opposed to escalating military actions. Einav Zangauker, a mother of a hostage and a prominent member of the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, articulated a demand for a “comprehensive and achievable agreement” to end the conflict, emphasizing the urgency felt by families of the captives.
These demonstrations took place shortly after Israel’s war cabinet approved plans to occupy Gaza City, which has sparked condemnation from the United Nations Security Council. Reports indicate that these military actions have led to significant displacement within Gaza, with thousands fleeing areas affected by continuous bombings.
On the ground in Gaza, at least 40 casualties were reported from Israeli airstrikes, which Hamas claims targeted specific neighborhoods in Gaza City. Meanwhile, the Israeli military announced plans to allow humanitarian aid in the form of tents and shelter equipment, aimed at assisting displaced populations.
With around 1.9 million residents displaced according to the UN, concerns have been raised regarding malnutrition, with experts suggesting alarming scenarios of famine. The ongoing conflict was reignited by Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties and hostage-taking.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce93y2dxlg4o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss