Thousands Protest in Israel, Urging Government Action on Hamas Hostage Crisis

Demonstrators demand a deal to secure the release of over 100 hostages held in Gaza, as political divisions complicate negotiations.

Protests erupted in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with thousands calling for the Israeli government to prioritize the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.
Critics accuse Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government of prolonging the Gaza conflict, endangering the lives of the hostages, and stalling negotiations for their release.
Netanyahu's reliance on right-wing and ultra-religious coalition partners, who oppose any deal with Hamas, is seen as a major obstacle to reaching an agreement.
Approximately 100 hostages remain in Gaza over a year after their abduction, with estimates suggesting that only half are still alive.
The U.S. has reiterated its support for the hostages' release and urged Israel to address the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza.