Tel Aviv Rallies for Hostage Return as Ceasefire with Hamas Looms
TEL AVIV — Thousands gathered in Hostage Square on Saturday evening, celebrating a potential ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The demonstration marked a significant moment as it followed Hamas’s acceptance of a ceasefire proposal put forth by former President Donald Trump on Friday. Protesters expressed a renewed sense of hope for the return of hostages taken during the conflict that began on October 7, 2023.
Among the crowd was Gili Coheb-Taguri, a 49-year-old material scientist, who showcased her creativity with a heart-shaped balloon and a Trump-themed origami mask. “The reason I wore this costume is to thank Trump for what he did. People have been so depressed, and when they see Trump here, they smile,” she explained. Coheb-Taguri emphasized the urgency of the situation: “The key point for us is the hostages. It’s been two years and we want them back. We want our life back.”
The proposed 20-point plan aims for the release of all 48 hostages held by Hamas. In exchange, Israel would release 1,700 detainees from Gaza, including 250 prisoners serving life sentences. The plan also outlines a phased withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, ensuring that no resident is forced to leave, while encouraging those who wish to return.
Coheb-Taguri’s husband, Yossi Taguri, voiced concerns about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that the government’s interests do not align with those of the public. “We are not our government. Bibi’s interest and our interests are not aligned,” he said, using Netanyahu’s nickname. Critics have accused Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict to maintain his political position, with some fearing he may attempt to sabotage the ceasefire agreement.
In a video statement released on Saturday evening, Netanyahu expressed optimism about finalizing the deal soon, claiming that the Israeli military would retain control over key areas in Gaza during the initial phase of the agreement. He attributed Hamas’s willingness to negotiate to the military actions taken in Gaza, which have reportedly resulted in over 67,000 deaths, according to health authorities in the enclave.
Despite previous agreements that have faltered, Netanyahu reiterated his determination to secure the return of the hostages. “Hamas will be disarmed and Gaza will be demilitarized,” he stated, proposing that this could occur either through diplomatic channels or military action.
Responses from the crowd reflected a mix of hope and skepticism. Omer Shem Tov, a former hostage freed in a previous exchange, led chants of “Bring them back!” which were met with enthusiastic replies from the crowd. Actor Leor Ashkenazi also addressed the attendees, acknowledging Trump’s role in the new negotiations.
Among the demonstrators was Mindy Rabinowitz, a 57-year-old college head, who wore a sticker indicating the number of days since the war began—729. He had committed to attending the protests regularly but had hesitated prior to the ceasefire announcement. “I turned to my wife and said, ‘Maybe we shouldn’t stay home and watch this on TV. We should go,’” he recalled.
The atmosphere at the rally was palpable; while many attendees were cautious about the prospects for peace, the sentiment leaned towards optimism. Dor Jaliff, a 35-year-old social worker, shared his thoughts on the situation. “I wish our government would consider the hostages as the top priority like Trump does,” he said, acknowledging his mixed feelings about external influence in Israeli matters. “Look, I’m not happy Trump is getting involved in Israel’s affairs, but at least someone is doing the job.”
As the crowd continued to rally, the significance of the moment was evident. Participants held onto the hope that the ceasefire could pave the way for a resolution that prioritizes the safe return of hostages and a lasting peace for the region.
