Israel (Washington Insider Magazine)— Israel witnessed several demonstrations on Wednesday as citizens demanded an agreement for the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The protests followed a spontaneous anti-government rally outside the Israel Occupation Forces (IOF) headquarters on Monday night, triggered by the army’s announcement of the deaths of four hostages in Gaza.
Major Road Blockades Across Israel
Protesters blocked key roads, including the Kfar HaYarok crossing in Tel Aviv, the Ra’anana, and the Karkur crossing. Demonstrators called for the government to negotiate an immediate release of the captives. Hundreds of people disrupted traffic on the Ayalon Highway, lighting a bonfire in the middle of the road. Similar protests occurred in cities like Jerusalem, Haifa, and Rehovot, according to Infobae.
Army Confirms Hostage Deaths
IOF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed the deaths of Chaim Peri, 79, Amiram Cooper, 84, Yoram Metzger, 80, and Nadav Popplewell, 51, during a Monday night press conference. The circumstances of their deaths remain unclear, with the military launching a full investigation based on new intelligence data.
Reactions from the Hostage Families Forum
The Hostage Families Forum expressed deep sorrow, urging the government to expedite negotiations for the remaining hostages. They highlighted that the deceased had been seen alive in Hamas propaganda videos and were expected to return home safely.
Continued Protests and International Mediation Efforts
Activists continued their demonstrations, despite some facing fines and detentions by police. The protests came shortly after US President Joe Biden announced an Israeli proposal for a phased release of hostages and a ceasefire agreement. Efforts by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar to mediate between Israel and Hamas are ongoing.
Hostages’ Current Situation
Approximately 120 hostages remain in Gaza, following the kidnapping of 251 individuals during the October 7 Hamas attack, which killed around 1,200 people. To date, 105 hostages have been freed during a week-long truce in November, and four were released earlier. Three hostages have been rescued alive by troops, while the bodies of 19 have been recovered. The IOF has confirmed the deaths of 41 hostages based on new findings. Additionally, Hamas holds two Israeli civilians and the bodies of two IOF soldiers from previous incidents in 2014 and 2015.
