On Sunday, Israel saw large-scale protests following the death of six hostages in Gaza, sparking frustration over the government’s failure to secure a ceasefire and the release of Israeli captives.
Demonstrations, numbering up to 500,000 according to Israeli media, took place in cities including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, with protesters demanding action from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Protesters blocked streets and gathered outside Netanyahu’s residence, with police using water cannons to disperse the crowds and making 29 arrests.
The Israeli military confirmed the recovery of the hostages’ bodies from a tunnel in Rafah, Gaza.
Forensic reports indicate they were killed by Hamas terrorists at close range 48-72 hours prior.
Netanyahu vowed to pursue those responsible, while Hamas officials blamed Israel’s refusal to sign a ceasefire agreement for the deaths, accusing Netanyahu of being responsible for the killing of Israeli prisoners.
Israel’s offensive in Gaza, launched after a major Hamas attack on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties and devastation, with at least 40,738 Palestinians reported dead according to Gaza health officials.