“End the War”: Tel Aviv Protesters Demand Immediate Action on Hostage Crisis

Hundreds gathered in the heart of Tel Aviv on Saturday to demand an end to the ongoing conflict and the safe return of Israeli hostages from Gaza. The demonstrators, many carrying signs with messages like “Seal the Deal” and “Stop the War,” called on Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government to prioritize a peace agreement.

Amid chants and the sound of drums, protesters questioned why 97 hostages remain in Gaza, with frustration mounting over the government’s perceived failure to bring them home. “They’ve had multiple chances, but the government has destroyed every opportunity,” lamented 52-year-old Zahiro Shahar, whose relative was taken hostage and later perished in captivity.

Many demonstrators also criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu directly. Activist Ifat Calderon, whose cousin remains a hostage, accused him of sabotaging peace deals at critical junctures. “Netanyahu blocks every agreement that could lead to their release,” Calderon claimed, urging a swift and firm resolution.

The ongoing conflict has seen an enormous death toll, with over 43,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza since the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, and many Israelis struggling with the physical and mental strain of an unrelenting war.

Some protesters, weary of stalled negotiations, expressed hope that the upcoming U.S. elections might bring a leader who could facilitate an end to the hostilities.

While peace talks appeared to gain traction after the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, reports indicate that Hamas has declined recent short-term ceasefire offers from Egypt and Qatar. A Hamas representative commented, “The Palestinian people seek a full, comprehensive, and lasting ceasefire.”