Families of hostages held by Hamas will mark 400 days since their loved ones were taken with large-scale rallies across Israel, drawing thousands of supporters. Organized by the Hostage Families Forum, the protests will take place in cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Kiryat Gat. This Saturday's events coincide with political turmoil following Prime Minister Netanyahu's recent decision to dismiss Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Gallant had been pushing for a deal to release the hostages, and his dismissal has led some to believe the move may undermine negotiations. The Hostage Families Forum has voiced its disapproval, seeing it as a step backward in efforts to secure a release deal.
The main rally, to be held in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, will feature speeches from public figures including Niva Wenkert, mother of Omer Wenkert, a current hostage, and Ramos Aloni, whose son-in-law, David Cunio, remains in captivity. Other speakers include German Ambassador Steffen Seibert and journalist Shai Golden, emphasizing the widespread public concern over the hostage situation. The rally will center on calls for the return of all hostages and the emotional toll endured by families and the broader Israeli community.
In the midst of the protests, Netanyahu faces criticism for allegedly stalling hostage negotiations due to political concerns. Following Gallant's dismissal, he hinted that Netanyahu may be prioritizing political stability over the hostages' release, despite backing from Israel's security leaders. As of now, 97 hostages remain in Gaza, with international intermediaries like Egypt, Qatar, and the United States still unable to broker a successful release deal. A recent brief truce in November led to the release of some hostages in exchange for Palestinian detainees, but further progress has stalled, intensifying calls for a resolution.
Comments