Thousands of Israelis Demand Focus on Captive Release Amid Military Escalation
Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the Ministry of Defence in Tel Aviv on Saturday, urging the Israeli government to prioritize the release of hostages held in Gaza rather than escalating military operations in the region. The protest coincided with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approval to mobilize up to 60,000 reserve troops, indicating plans for intensified assaults on the besieged Palestinian enclave.
Amidst the rally, one protester brandished a placard criticizing Netanyahu, stating, “our tyrant is a liar, because of him the state is on fire.” Critics argue that expanding the military offensive risks the lives of the 59 captives, a concern underscored by recent government claims that increased military pressure on Hamas could facilitate their release. A brief ceasefire earlier this year, which allowed for the exchange of prisoners, has not resulted in further releases.
Adding to the tension, Hamas released a video reportedly showing one Israeli captive, Maxim Herkin, being rescued after an Israeli assault struck a tunnel. Families of the captives expressed their “excruciating anxiety” over the government’s military plans, and the “Bring Them Home Campaign,” representing their interests, condemned the escalation as reckless. They called for a shift in strategy, urging Netanyahu to pursue negotiations for the captives’ return, rather than further military action.
Despite the protests, Israeli journalist Gideon Levy noted that they lack the momentum to influence Netanyahu’s coalition, with a significant portion of society still backing the war effort. Netanyahu, during a recent public event, reinforced that defeating Hamas remains a priority over the immediate release of captives, raising concerns among families about his true commitment to their loved ones’ safety.
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