US EditionProtesters in Israel demand release of hostages as Gaza strikes kill 16, hospitals say
- On August 26, 2025, thousands gathered in Tel Aviv for a major demonstration organized by relatives of Israeli hostages, calling for a ceasefire and the immediate release of those held captive.
- The protests stem from ongoing frustration over the 251 Israelis captured by Hamas on October 7, 2023, with around fifty still held in Gaza amid escalating military offensives.
- During the protests, participants blocked highways, set tires on fire, and waved banners reading 'Hostage Deal Now', expressing urgency for a comprehensive agreement before further Israeli attacks.
- Speakers like opposition MK Gilad Kariv emphasized that public pressure created past deals, while relatives such as Einav Zangauker accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of fearing pressure over seeking resolution.
- The nationwide protests indicate mounting public demand for a ceasefire deal, suggesting growing pressure on the Israeli government to prioritize hostage negotiations over military escalation.
147 Articles
147 Articles
der Standard AT
der Standard DEIn Israel, there is no silence in the voices calling for the release of the remaining hostages – even if it is necessary to negotiate with Hamas.
In photos: Mass protests in Israel demand a hostage deal
On Tuesday, protesters gathered at intersections and outside ministers' homes in response to a call from the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, an advocacy group for Israeli hostages. They demanded that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government reach a truce agreement in Gaza.
Several tens of thousands of people responded on Tuesday to the call of the Forum of Hostage Families to demand a ceasefire agreement and the release of hostages in Gaza. A meeting is held on Wednesday at the White House to discuss the "after day".
Hundreds of thousands of people protested again in Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities on Tuesday, 26 August, to demand an agreement from the Prime Minister on the release of the hostages, but this one is terrifying.
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