Mass Protests in Israel Demand Hostage Deal, Disrupt Daily Life
Israeli police used water cannons and made dozens of arrests on Sunday as thousands of protesters launched a nationwide strike demanding a deal to release hostages held in Gaza. Roads were blocked, businesses shut down, and rallies erupted across the country in what organizers called a coordinated effort to pressure the government.
The protests were led by groups representing the families of hostages and come amid growing opposition to Israel’s plans for a new military offensive in some of Gaza’s most densely populated areas. Critics fear the renewed attacks could further jeopardize the lives of the remaining 50 hostages — 20 of whom are believed to still be alive.
Widespread Demonstrations
Protesters gathered outside politicians’ homes, military bases, and along major highways. They lit bonfires and carried signs, with some holding images of malnourished Palestinian children — a shift in public discourse as concern rises over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, where more than 250 people have died from malnutrition.
Restaurants and theaters closed in solidarity with the movement. “We don’t win a war over the bodies of hostages,” protesters chanted in Tel Aviv. Former hostage Arbel Yehoud, whose partner Ariel Cunio remains captive, declared: “The only way to bring them back is through a deal — all at once, no more games.”
Government Response
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains firmly opposed to a ceasefire deal that leaves Hamas in power. “Calling to end the war without defeating Hamas only delays the release of our hostages and invites more October 7-style attacks,” Netanyahu said, referring to the 2023 assault that killed around 1,200 Israelis and triggered the war.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich condemned the protests as “a harmful campaign” that plays into Hamas’ hands. A previous ceasefire deal that secured hostage releases nearly collapsed Netanyahu’s government after backlash from far-right members of his coalition.
Military Plans and Growing Uncertainty
Israel’s proposed new offensive would require calling up thousands of reservists, sparking further concern among the public. The military has not yet announced when operations will begin in Gaza City, Muwasi, or what Netanyahu refers to as the “central camps” of the region.
Meanwhile in Gaza, Israel’s military said it plans to forcibly evacuate civilians from combat zones to southern areas for safety. But Palestinians say no place is safe. “Here is bombing, and there is bombing,” said Mohamed Ahmed, refusing to leave his current shelter. Raghda Abu Dhaher, displaced 10 times during the war, added: “There are no humanitarian zones at all.”