Hundreds of Thousands March in Israel Calling for Hostage Return

On September 7, large-scale demonstrations erupted in Israel as thousands of people took to the streets, demanding that the government negotiate for the return of the remaining Jewish hostages held by Hamas. This wave of protests was particularly significant as it marked 11 months since the onset of the conflict in Gaza.

The most notable gathering occurred in Tel Aviv, where videos captured large crowds filling Begin Road. Family members of some of the approximately 101 hostages still held urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pursue a cease-fire agreement with Hamas that would facilitate their release.

Protests also erupted in other cities, including Jerusalem, Haifa, and Rehovot. Organizers reported an impressive turnout of around 400,000 demonstrators in Tel Aviv, coinciding with the anniversary of the surprise attack carried out by Hamas on October 7, which resulted in the kidnapping of hundreds of Israelis.

Hebrew media reported that protesters set bonfires and blocked roads near Darom Park in Tel Aviv, leading to the arrests of five individuals. These arrests were attributed to attempts to damage vehicles while obstructing traffic and breaching security perimeters.

Among the speakers at the rally in Tel Aviv was Andrey Kozlov, a former hostage who endured 246 days in captivity before being rescued during “Operation Arnon.” He addressed the crowd, stating, “We cannot allow this disaster to continue. We must demand that our leaders do whatever is necessary and to do the right thing.”

This recent demonstration followed shortly after a previous protest that saw an estimated 700,000 people rallying across Israel. This earlier protest was spurred by the recovery of the bodies of six abductees, including Israeli-American Hersh Goldberg-Polin. Many protesters voiced their frustration with Netanyahu, accusing him of intentionally obstructing negotiations for the release of hostages in a bid to maintain his grip on power.

Despite these criticisms, Prime Minister Netanyahu reaffirmed his stance, asserting that he would not agree to any deal that would leave Hamas in charge of the Gaza Strip. He emphasized that Israel’s security was contingent upon the “elimination” of the militant group.

At a separate demonstration held in Herzliya, former Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon called for the immediate resignation of Netanyahu’s government, as reported by Maariv, an Israeli newspaper. Ya’alon asserted that the current government needed to be replaced promptly, stating, “We are the majority, that’s why they fear elections.” He further urged for a strategic shift from protests to formal opposition against what he described as a “criminal and dangerous government” that has lost public support according to various polls.

The ongoing demonstrations reflect the deep distress and frustration among Israelis over the hostage situation and the broader implications of the conflict with Hamas. As calls for action intensify, the political landscape in Israel remains volatile, emphasizing the urgent need for a resolution that addresses the humanitarian crisis while ensuring national security.