Israeli protesters blocked roads in Tel Aviv for a second consecutive day on Sunday, demanding that the government secure a hostage deal with Hamas as the Gaza war enters its tenth month.
A nationwide 'disruption day' commenced at 6:29 am, aligning with the start of the Hamas attacks on southern Israel on October 7. Demonstrators, brandishing flags, halted traffic at a Tel Aviv intersection, calling for elections and urging the government to intensify efforts to free the remaining captives in Gaza. Police enhanced security around Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Jerusalem residence in anticipation of a rally scheduled for Sunday.
The previous night, anti-government protesters who had blocked a highway clashed with police on horseback, leading to the deployment of water cannons by authorities to clear the road. Mediators have initiated new truce negotiations between Israel and Hamas, and some hostage families report renewed hope.
"For the first time, we all feel that we are closer than ever to getting our loved ones back," said Sachar Mor, a relative of hostage Ofer Kaderon, at a Saturday rally. "This is an opportunity that cannot be missed."
Israel's attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least 38,153 people in Gaza, predominantly civilians, according to the enclave's health ministry. The October 7 attack led to the deaths of 1,195 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures. The militants also captured 251 hostages, 116 of whom remain in Gaza, including 42 whom the military claims are deceased.
