Israeli frustration over the war in Gaza erupts into fierce protests
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Tens of thousands gather in Israel to demand hostage return deal
- Hundreds of thousands of Israeli protesters demonstrated across the country on Sunday, demanding a deal to free hostages held in Gaza.
- The protests were fuelled by frustration over government plans for a new military offensive in Gaza, which many fear could further endanger the remaining 20 hostages believed to be alive.
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that ending the war without defeating Hamas would delay the release of any hostages, while his finance minister criticised the demonstrations as harmful.
- Protesters blocked major highways, lit bonfires, and gathered outside official buildings, leading to 38 arrests by police.
- The demonstrations occurred amid reports of Israeli forces killing aid-seekers in Gaza and warnings from the UN about severe starvation levels due to insufficient aid.