Protests in Tel Aviv escalate over hostage crisis

Tel Aviv witnessed clashes between Israeli police and protesters on Saturday as thousands gathered to demand the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and criticize the government’s handling of the situation.

Simultaneously, near Ashdod, a small U.S. military vessel and what appeared to be a segment of docking area washed ashore, close to the U.S.-built pier facilitating humanitarian aid into Palestinian territories, as stated by the Israeli military.

In Tel Aviv, some demonstrators carried pictures of female soldiers, abducted during the initial attacks on Oct. 7. Banners reading “Stop the war” and “Help” underscored the crowd’s plea for government action to secure the release of remaining hostages.

The protesters also demanded the resignation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and called for new elections.

“We couldn’t ignore the government’s abandonment of these individuals after witnessing the video,” said Hilit Sagi, a member of the “Women Protest for the Return of All Hostages” group.

Tensions among Israelis have escalated over Netanyahu’s management of the conflict with Hamas, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the abduction of around 250 individuals. Israel estimates about 100 hostages remain in Gaza, along with the bodies of roughly 30 others.

“They’re simply not doing enough to bring back the hostages, whether through military action, negotiations, or a hostage exchange. Nothing substantial is being done,” remarked Snir Dahan, uncle of hostage Carmel Gat.

Netanyahu’s administration faces mounting pressure domestically and internationally to cease hostilities and allow humanitarian assistance into Gaza, home to 2.3 million Palestinians, with nearly 80% displaced.

This week, three European nations announced their recognition of a Palestinian state, while the International Criminal Court sought arrest warrants for Israeli and Hamas leaders.

Despite an International Court of Justice order to halt military operations in Rafah and open border crossings for aid, Israel’s compliance remains uncertain.

As the conflict persists, over a million Palestinians have fled Rafah, further straining aid efforts.

Israel’s control of the Rafah border crossing has severely disrupted aid operations, prompting concerns of a humanitarian crisis.

Israeli airstrikes persisted on Saturday, with casualties reported in Jabaliya and Nuseirat.

According to the Health Ministry, more than 35,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict, with no distinction made between combatants and civilians.