“Netanyahu Thwarts the Will of the People”: Hostage Protest on Ayalon Highway

Families and Activists Demand End to Conflict and Return of Hostages

This morning, the Ayalon Highway in southern Israel was blocked near the Yehudit Bridge by families of hostages and activists from the Women’s Protest for the Return of the Hostages. The demonstrators called for an end to the ongoing conflict, the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and the immediate return of all captives.

Majority Support for Hostage Return and Ceasefire

Protesters presented data indicating that 82% of the population supports an agreement for the return of all hostages and the cessation of hostilities. The demonstrators accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of obstructing the will of the people, claiming he is leading the nation into a prolonged war driven by “messianic delusions.”

“Time and again, we have seen that Netanyahu and his government are thwarting every opportunity to bring back individuals who are suffering and languishing in tunnels for political interests,” the protestors stated in an official message.

Vostarts of the Affected Families

Notable participants at the protest included Naama Weinberg, cousin of Itai Svirski, who was kidnapped and killed in captivity, and Gila Baron, a relative of Tal Shem, who was returned in an agreement in January. The protesters issued a clear demand to Netanyahu and his government: “End the war, leave Gaza, and bring everystart home-immediately.”

As the protest continues to gain momentum, the message remains consistent: the public is calling for change in government policy regarding the conflict and hostage situation