Families of hostages gathered in front of Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s private residence on Azza Street in Jerusalem, calling on the government to secure the release of those still held by Hamas. Organized by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, the demonstration aimed to hold the government accountable while avoiding direct condemnation.
Despite efforts to maintain a balanced tone, some protesters interrupted speeches with chants of “Shame!” directed at the government. The demonstration coincided with reports of a proposed plan by the US, Egypt, and Qatar to halt the conflict, facilitate the return of hostages, and pave the way for normalized relations between Israel and its neighbors, along with discussions on a Palestinian state.
Israel estimates that 132 hostages remain in Gaza, with 105 released in a November deal. The IDF confirmed 28 deaths among those still held by Hamas, citing new intelligence. The demonstration, prompted by growing concerns, saw an increasing crowd at Azza Street, with protesters highlighting the responsibility of the cabinet for the hostages’ lives.
Orin Gantz, mother of 28-year-old Eden Zacharia, who was kidnapped and killed by Hamas, appealed to the prime minister and the war cabinet to prioritize lives over ego. She emphasized the personal cost, stating, “My daughter didn’t just die; she died on our watch.”
