Mass protests across israel demand hostage release and early elections

According to the Israeli broadcasting authority, protesters congregated at Kaplan Square, advocating for a hostage swap deal with Palestinian factions in Gaza and pressing for early elections.

Families of the hostages detained in Gaza were also present, delivering speeches before the demonstrators, as reported by the broadcasting authority.

Clashes reportedly erupted between police and protesters at Kaplan Square, according to Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth.

In addition to the gatherings at Kaplan Square, thousands assembled on Begin Street outside the Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv.

Meanwhile, demonstrators also converged near the residence of Israeli President Isaac Herzog in West Jerusalem, demanding the return of those held in Gaza and calling for early elections, according to Yedioth Ahronoth.

Simultaneously, thousands protested near the residence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Caesarea, with additional gatherings in Haifa.

Tensions escalated following the release of a video by Al-Qassam Brigades showing two hostages held in Gaza, demanding a hostage swap deal from the Israeli government.

In response, families of the hostages issued a statement, as reported by Yedioth Ahronoth, urging Israel to choose between a potential invasion of Rafah or pursuing a deal with Hamas.

Tel Aviv estimates that 134 Israelis are currently held captive in Gaza, while Israel detains around 9,000 Palestinians in its jails.

The israeli aggression has resulted in the deaths of over 34,300 Palestinians since an Oct. 7, 2023 cross-border Operation Al Aqsa Flood by Hamas, which claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 Israelis and led to the abduction of around 250 hostages.

A previous deal brokered in November resulted in the release of 81 Israelis and 24 foreigners in exchange for 240 Palestinians, including 71 women and 169 children. (ILKHA)