Mass Mobilization in Israel Demands Hostage Release and Ceasefire in Gaza Conflict

Wed Oct 22 2025 14:16:37 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Hundreds of thousands take to the streets of Israel to urge an end to the ongoing Gaza war and advocate for hostages held by Hamas.

In a significant display of public sentiment, massive crowds rallied in major Israeli cities, particularly in Tel Aviv, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages. The national strike coincided with ongoing military actions, eliciting a strong response from the government and intensifying the debate over the war's direction.

Massive crowds filled the streets of Israel this Sunday, particularly in Tel Aviv's "Hostages Square," as demonstrators called for an end to the ongoing Gaza conflict and the urgent release of hostages held by Hamas. Organizers reported that hundreds of thousands participated in what has been described as one of the largest protests during the 22 months of warfare.

The protests were fueled by the Israeli government's plans to seize control of Gaza City, a move that activists believe endangers the approximately 20 hostages still in Hamas's custody. Amidst the demonstrations, the families of hostages urged the government for negotiations, leading to a national strike that brought roadways, offices, and universities to a standstill. Nearly 40 individuals were arrested as tensions flared across various protest sites.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the demonstrations, asserting that they could "harden Hamas’s stance" and slow the release of hostages. Far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich echoed these sentiments, labeling the protests a detrimental campaign benefiting Hamas. Clashes ensued in Tel Aviv, where riot police confronted protesters outside the Likud party headquarters during the massive show of dissent.

Einav Zangauker, a prominent figure in the Hostage and Missing Families Forum and mother of hostage Matan, addressed the crowd with emotional appeals, demanding "comprehensive and achievable agreements" alongside the cessation of hostilities. She expressed profound longing for her son, emphasizing the urgent need for action from the Israeli government.

These protests arose following a decision by Israel's war cabinet to occupy Gaza City, a move that has faced condemnation from the United Nations Security Council. Meanwhile, reports from Gaza indicate dire humanitarian conditions as civilians flee continuous bombardments, with significant casualties reported from recent Israeli airstrikes. The UN estimates that about 90% of Gaza's population has been displaced amidst the conflict which began with a violent attack by Hamas on October 7th, claiming over 1,200 Israeli lives.

As Israel prepares to displace a million residents of Gaza City to the southern region, humanitarian organizations are being allowed to provide shelter equipment, albeit with no specified timeline for military entry into the city. The ongoing war's impact on both Israeli and Palestinian communities remains profound, raising urgent questions about the path forward.