Thousands of family members of Israeli hostages held in Gaza have taken to the streets across Israel, protesting for a deal securing their loved ones’ release and an end to the conflict. The protesters, who are marking the 600th day since Israel’s retaliatory campaign began, claim the government is prioritizing politics over the safety of those in captivity.
Families are calling on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resign, accusing him of “sentencing them to death” due to his handling of the situation. Anat Angrest, whose son was kidnapped by Hamas, said: “Imagine standing next to me, giving everything for the state and the homeland, but being abandoned and forgotten.” A freed hostage, Arbel Yehoud, stated that Israel is at a crossroads, choosing between saving lives or abandoning them.
The protesters are also demanding earlier elections and the establishment of a state commission of inquiry into the 7 October massacre. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has called for the resignation of Ron Dermer, the head of the Israeli hostage negotiating team, citing his inability to secure a single release due to his efforts.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/28/families-hostages-stage-protests-600th-day-israel-gaza-war