Thousands gather at Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square, demanding an end to the Gaza war and the safe return of hostages. Image credit: France 24
Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators filled Tel Aviv on Sunday, demanding an end to the Gaza war and the release of hostages. It was one of Israel’s largest rallies since the fighting began in October 2023.
The protest, held in Hostage Square, capped a day of nationwide strikes and marches. Crowds chanted, “Bring them all home! Stop the war!” The Hostage and Missing Families Forum, which organized the protests, claimed that 500,000 people took part, though police did not confirm the figure.
Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan, urged the government to act. “We demand an agreement and an end to the war,” she said. “The Israeli government has turned a just war into a pointless one.”
Earlier, Israeli media released a Hamas video showing Matan Zangauker looking frail. His family said the clip was recovered by the army in Gaza.
Protesters said time is running out. “This is probably the last minute to save the hostages,” said demonstrator Ofir Penso, 50.
The protests followed Israel’s approval of plans to capture Gaza City, 22 months into the conflict. The war has created a severe humanitarian crisis, with Gaza’s health ministry reporting more than 61,000 Palestinian deaths.
Across Israel, protesters blocked roads, lit fires, and clashed with police. Authorities arrested more than 30 people. Organizers vowed to “shut down the country” until hostages are freed.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the protests, claiming they “harden Hamas’s position and delay hostage releases.” Far-right ministers called the movement “harmful” and “a surrender.”
Yet opposition leader Benny Gantz blamed the government for the hostages’ continued captivity. Egypt and other mediators are pushing for a 60-day truce that includes hostage exchanges, but talks remain stalled.
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