Protests in Tel Aviv: Thousands demand hostages and criticize Netanyahu

Protests in Tel Aviv: Thousands demand hostages and criticize Netanyahu

thousands of Israelis gathered yesterday before the Ministry of Defense in Tel Aviv to demonstrate for the release of the hostages recorded in Gaza. The protest took place in parallel to the measures of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who approved the mobilization of up to 60,000 reservists. This indicates a possible intensification of military operations in the Gaza Strip. A demonstrator kept a poster with the inscription: "Our tyrant is a liar, because of him the state burns", which reflects the anger of many citizens about the current situation.

Government representative claim that an extended military offensive could lead to Hamas exposed the 59 remaining hostages. Critics, on the other hand, warn that this could further endanger the life of hostages. An end of the temporary ceasefire has so far not led to further release. In a controversial video published by Hamas, one of the hostages, Maxim Herkin, can be seen how it is saved by Hamas members after an Israeli attack has hit a tunnel. The families of the hostages expressed their “agonizing fear” about the planned escalation of the government and condemned the military offensive as ruthless.

growing protests and social division

The protests on Sunday were the greatest support for a hostage-taking deal since October 7, when Hamas militant kidnapped 250 people. Six hostages were recently killed by their kidnappers, while Israeli troops approached their location, which further increased the pressure on Netanyahu. According to reports, many Israelis blends the prime minister responsible for the increasing number of dead hostages and call for an armistice to free the remaining hosts.

criticism of Netanyahus course

Netanyahu sees increasing criticism exposed to home and abroad. US President Joe Biden publicly criticized him and said that he wasn't doing enough to negotiate a deal. Critics accuse Netanyahu of putting his political survival about the fate of the hostages, while based on the support of ultra -nationalist parties that are against an armistice. These parties threaten to overthrow the government if it agrees.

In this tense situation, hope remains among the members of the hostage -minded families that the protests could represent a turning point in the war. President Jitzchak Herzog apologized in the name of the state of Israel to the members of the hostages and emphasizes the importance of protecting the common values ​​of society.

On Monday, Ben Gurion International Airport was closed for two hours, which clarifies the escalation of the protests again. Further protests have been announced for Tuesday, while the country is still waiting for a solution in this critical situation.

For more information on ongoing developments, please visit: AP News and Die Zeit .