Tel aviv: Israeli police forcefully dispersed protesters attempting to block a major road in central Tel Aviv during a demonstration demanding the government reach a deal to release captives held in Gaza, local media reported.
According to Anadolu Agency, the demonstrators tried to shut down the busy street but were blocked and cleared from the area by police. Several participants were arrested on charges of public disorder. Among those protesting were relatives of Israeli captives. Hostage Nimrod Cohen's mother, speaking at the protest, addressed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials, stating her opposition to any rescue attempt that may endanger her son's life, insisting that only a comprehensive deal can ensure his safe return.
Families of the captives issued a joint statement warning that expanding the war in Gaza would further threaten their loved ones. They accused Netanyahu of public manipulation by discussing rescues while considering war escalation, which they claim would increase the risk to the captives' lives.
Several Israeli outlets have reported that top government officials are considering escalating military operations in Gaza amid stalled negotiations with the Palestinian group Hamas. Earlier, Israeli army Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir warned that a full-scale assault on Gaza could jeopardize the lives of Israeli hostages.
The situation remains tense as, on Friday, the Al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas' military wing, released a video showing Israeli captive Evyatar David appearing visibly emaciated due to the Israeli siege. Separately, Saraya al-Quds, the armed wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, published the final video of captive Rom Braslavski before losing contact with the unit holding him.
Tel Aviv estimates that 50 Israelis remain captive in Gaza, including 20 believed to be alive. Meanwhile, Israel holds more than 10,800 Palestinian detainees, many of whom face dire conditions, according to rights groups. The Israeli army has continued its offensive on Gaza since October 7, 2023, resulting in significant civilian casualties.
Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes in Gaza. Additionally, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.