Amid the Gaza conflict, outrage erupts in Israel over the release of hostages. Families and citizens protested against the government in the streets. Police used water cannons and arrested several people.
Israel Protests: Families of the hostages have opened a front against the Israeli government. Protests have intensified throughout the country demanding the safe release of those trapped in Gaza. Police had to use force to control the crowd.
Gaza War and the Hostage Issue
The war between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing for a long time. Amid the continuous attacks in Gaza, the issue of hostages has emerged as a major crisis. On October 7, 2023, Hamas took many people hostage. Israel claims that about 20 of them are still alive. The families of the hostages fear that their lives may be in danger if the situation worsens.
The Anger of the Hostages' Relatives
Recently, a video surfaced showing a hostage, Avyatar David, being forced to dig his own grave. After this video went viral, anger spread throughout Israel. The relatives of the hostages and those killed have started protesting to put pressure on the government. They say that winning the war cannot be at the cost of the lives of the hostages.
Movement Spreads Throughout Israel
The protests are not limited to Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. People have taken to the streets in hundreds of locations across the country. Protesters have blocked the residences of politicians, military headquarters, and several major highways. Police used water cannons to remove the protesters and have arrested 38 people so far.
Protesters Receiving Support from Society
This movement of the hostages' families is also receiving support from ordinary citizens. Many restaurants and cinemas kept their establishments closed in solidarity. People gathered at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv said that military pressure alone cannot bring the hostages back. Negotiation is the only way.
Difficulties for the Israeli Government
The Israeli government is currently under dual pressure. On one hand, the army is continuously attacking Hamas in Gaza, and on the other hand, it is facing opposition from its own citizens. Protesters say that the government should stop the war and prioritize the safe return of the hostages.
Foreign Minister's Statement
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar recently claimed that Hamas has starved the hostages in Gaza. He said that Hamas terrorists are eating good food, meat, fish, and vegetables, while the hostages are in difficult conditions. Saar also said that Israel is sending large quantities of relief supplies to Gaza, but Hamas is seizing and selling it for profit.
