500,000 Protest in Tel Aviv Against Netanyahu

TEHRAN (Defapress) - One of the largest protest gatherings since the beginning of the war was held in Tel Aviv, where hundreds of thousands of demonstrators came together to demand an end to the war and the release of hostages.

This rally marked the climax of nationwide protests and a general strike by opponents to pressure Netanyahu to stop the war. Tel Aviv Square, which has become known as "Hostage Square" since October 7 due to continuous gatherings of hostages' families and protesters against Netanyahu's policies, witnessed chants demanding the return of hostages and an end to the war.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum announced that over 500,000 people participated in last night's demonstration. Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan and one of the prominent figures of this protest movement, said: "We demand a comprehensive and achievable agreement and an end to the war. We are claiming our rights. The Israeli government has turned a just war into a meaningless one."

Israeli state media on Sunday released a video message from Matan Zangauker, in which the hostage, weak and emaciated, addressed his family, saying he missed them. The hostage's family said this video was filmed by Hamas and found by the army in Gaza.

These protests began one week after Israel's security cabinet approved the plan for the complete occupation of Gaza. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum promised on Sunday that protesters would bring Israel to a standstill to secure the hostages' return and end the war.

In recent days, protesters across the occupied territories have blocked roads by burning tires and clashed with police. According to Israeli police, more than 30 protesters have been arrested.

In response, Netanyahu strongly criticized the protesters, saying: "Their actions not only strengthen Hamas's position and delay the release of hostages, but also create conditions for a repeat of the horrific October 7 incident."

Extremists in Israel's cabinet who oppose stopping the genocide in Gaza criticized Sunday's protests. Bezalel Smotrich, the bloodthirsty finance minister in Netanyahu's government, said: "This is a deviant movement that has become Hamas's tool."

Benny Gantz, the opposition leader, condemned Netanyahu and his cabinet members for their attacks on protesters and hostages' families.