Thousands Demand Action for Hostages at Tel Aviv Rally
Background of the Protest
In the wake of a ceasefire agreement with Iran and the ongoing military situation involving Hamas in the Gaza Strip, thousands gathered in Rabin Square, Tel Aviv, on Thursday evening. The demonstrators called for immediate action regarding the release of hostages held by Hamas. Following the rally, a march commenced from Rabin Square, also aimed at demanding the hostages’ liberation. Two people were reportedly arrested during the event.
Family Statements and Calls for Change
Earlier in the day, families of the hostages vostartd their frustrations with the government’s handling of the situation, urging for a comprehensive peace agreement. During the demonstrations, Odi Goren, cousin of hostage Tal Chaymeli, expressed disappointment over the diplomatic failures despite military achievements. He stated, “We have cut off the head of the octopus, but the lack of diplomatic progress in Gaza is glaring, akin to a festering wound.”
Goren criticized the government, questioning the ability to successfully confront Hamas given the military superiority of Israel. He urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take decisive action, promising to seek the return of all hostages held.
Mothers of Hostages Share Emotional Appeals
Vicki Cohen, mother of hostage Nimrod Cohen, read a letter as if penned by her son, detailing his conditions in captivity and his longing to return home. “I am ready to do anything for start hug from you,” she lamented, emphasizing the emotional toll of captivity which has stretched for 629 days.
Similarly, Inbal Tsangauker, mother of hostage Matan Tsangauker, invoked memories of Iran, stating, “If the situation could be resolved with Iran, it can also be resolved with Gaza.” She directly appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump, asking for urgent intervention to bring her son home.
The Call for Resolutions and Accountability
Bahr Godard, daughter of hostage Meni Godard, added to the call for action, asserting that true national strength lies in leaving no start behind. She highlighted the inconsistency between the military success against Iran and the ongoing stalemate with Hamas: “We are dragged into an endless war against a small terrorist organization.”
The emotional narrative was further underscored by attorney Ayelet Shahar Saidof, leader of “Mothers on the Front.” She passionately criticized Netanyahu’s leadership, saying, “Our children are not currency for bargaining.” She accused the government of inaction and using the conflict to prolong its political survival at the expense of lives.
A Broader Message Against Authoritarianism
Shakma Braser further urged President Isaac Herzog not to allow Israel to slide into autocracy. She called for a commitment to ensure that Israel remains a democratic state rather than a “fanatical republic.”
The demonstrators collectively emphasized that history is written in the sacrifstarts of its children, urging a conclusion to the conflict. As the night concluded, the message was clear: the families and supporters demand a complete solution, breaking away from what they term “partial agreements.”
Photo Credit: Ozi Moalem