Ten thousand demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv and cities across Israel on Saturday evening to demand a hostage agreement and a ceasefire before Israel proceeds with the planned operation to seize Gaza City, writes The Times of Israel. Families of the captives called for a general strike in protest against the plan, which they warn will be deadly for their loved ones.
The protests came days after the cabinet decided to seize the densely populated Palestinian city, despite military objections that this move will lead to the death of hostages, unnecessary risk for troops, and deepen the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. "A bright red flag waves over the government's decision to sacrifice our loved ones," said a press release from the Forum of Hostage and Missing Families before the Saturday rallies. The forum urged the government: "Reach a comprehensive hostage deal, stop the war, bring our loved ones back—their time is up."
In front of the IDF headquarters, people urged soldiers to refuse service amid the expansion of hostilities and called on opposition leaders, as well as business, labor, and academic leaders, to lead the country to a strike.
"The mission you will receive is to participate in the murder of hostages," said Shay Moses, nephew of former hostage Gadi Moses, speaking to thousands at the demonstration. "In this situation, there is no other choice but to refuse."
Photo: Miriam Alster