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PoliticsIsrael

Protesters across Israel demand return of hostages

Minka Curr
April 7, 2024

Tens of thousands of protesters in cities across Israel have again demanded that the government do more to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas militants. Many called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resign.

https://p.dw.com/p/4eVqo

Tens of thousands block the streets in Tel Aviv and across Israel, their anger pointed directly at the country's leaders. 

Demonstrations against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing government were common before the war and flared back up as the conflict dragged on. 

A call for fresh elections growing louder and more urgent.

Hadas Ragolsky, protester in Tel Aviv: "We demand that an election will be set as soon as possible because this government is doing everything they can to destroy this country."

The demonstrations are focused on the safety and future of Israel. While not anti-war, some protesters have also voiced unease with the way Israel has conducted its assault on Gaza.

Tamar Lerner, protester in Tel Aviv: "This country must exist. We don't have another country. But we have to be a good country, a moral country that protects itself but acts according to human rights."

At the heart of the rallies is a demand to free all remaining hostages held in Gaza. 

As people gathered for a weekend of protests, Israel said special forces had recovered the body of Elad Katzir.

The 47-year-old died while held captive in the Palestinian territory. His family say they believe he could have been saved if the Israeli government had struck a deal. 

The families of other hostages hope that it's not too late for Israel to change tack, and save their loved ones.