Why it matters:
The families are pushing for the return of prisoners captured on October 7 and held in Gaza, but the biggest obstacle to their release, according to the families, is Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The bigger picture:
A number of Israelis were captured by Hamas in the October 7 war, and efforts to free them have been ongoing ever since.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refuses to agree to a ceasefire to secure releasing all prisoner. Critics believe that Netanyahu is trying to prolong the war to save his political life.
What he's saying:
Former Defense Minister Benny Gantz, in a sharp criticism of the war process, stated: What has been achieved in 600 days could have been achieved in less than six months, but the prolongation of the war pursues specific political goals.
He also stressed that Benjamin Netanyahu must prioritize the release of the hostages, even if this action delays the military operation.
Go deeper:
At the same time, another demonstration was held in front of the Israeli president's residence demanding the return of the prisoners. The protests also spread to various streets in Tel Aviv and some central Israeli cities, bringing a wave of public discontent. The public protests indicate growing pressure on the Israeli government to address the situation of prisoners of war.
Hossein Amiri
