Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets demanding a cease-fire with Hamas after six hostages were found dead in Gaza. The government was put under pressure, with the largest trade union calling for a general strike. Cease-fire negotiations have been ongoing for months, with blame placed on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Protests erupted outside his office and in Tel Aviv, where families of the hostages marched with coffins.
The hostages were reportedly killed shortly before Israeli forces arrived, with autopsies revealing they were shot at close range. The bodies were found in a tunnel in Gaza, leading to accusations against Hamas. The group has offered to release the hostages in exchange for an end to the war and the release of Palestinian prisoners. Funerals have begun, sparking more outrage in Israel.
Critics have accused Netanyahu of prioritizing his own interests over those of the hostages. The public outcry over the deaths of the hostages could signal increased political pressure on the prime minister. Divisions within the government have been exposed, with officials warning that time is running out for a cease-fire deal. The families of the hostages have demanded a complete halt of the country to push for a resolution.
The parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was abducted by Hamas, have become high-profile advocates for the hostages. They have met with world leaders and addressed the Democratic National Convention. President Joe Biden expressed outrage over the deaths of the hostages and offered condolences to the families. Israel believes that 101 hostages remain in captivity, while over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict. The war has displaced millions and plunged Gaza into a humanitarian crisis.
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