Israeli protesters took to the streets of Tel Aviv for a second consecutive day on Sunday, urging the government to secure a hostage deal with Hamas as the Gaza conflict stretches into its 10th month.
The “disruption day” began at 6:29 am, marking the exact time of the Hamas attacks on southern Israel on October 7, which ignited the ongoing war.
Advertorial
Demonstrators, waving flags, blocked traffic at a major intersection in Tel Aviv, calling for new elections and greater efforts by the government to negotiate the release of hostages still held in Gaza.
In anticipation of a significant rally, police increased security measures around Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem.
Advertorial
The previous evening saw anti-government protesters clashing with police on horseback as they blocked a highway, prompting authorities to use water cannons to disperse the crowd.
Mediators have initiated new truce negotiations between Israel and Hamas, instilling a sense of renewed hope among the families of hostages.
Sachar Mor, a relative of hostage Ofer Kaderon, expressed optimism at a rally on Saturday, stating, “for the first time, we all feel that we are closer than ever to getting our loved ones back. This is an opportunity that cannot be missed.”
Advertorial
The October 7 attacks resulted in the deaths of 1,195 people, predominantly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli data.
The militants also captured 251 hostages, with 116 still in Gaza, including 42 who the military believes are deceased.
In retaliation, Israel’s military offensive has claimed the lives of at least 38,153 people in Gaza, mostly civilians, as reported by the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled territory.
Advertorial
As the war drags on, the call for a truce and negotiations for the release of hostages remains a central focus for the protesters and the international community.
