Tens of thousands of Israelis have taken to the streets in mourning and anger after the bodies of six captives were found in Gaza. The protesters are demanding that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reach a ceasefire deal with Hamas to bring the remaining captives home. This mass outpouring of emotions is being called the largest demonstration in 11 months of war, with many feeling it could be a turning point for the country.
The Histadrut trade union has called for a general strike on Monday to increase pressure on the government. Ceasefire negotiations have been ongoing for months, with many blaming Netanyahu for failing to reach a deal that a majority of Israelis support. Three of the captives who were found dead were reportedly set to be released in a proposed ceasefire deal in July, leading to even more frustration among the protesters.
Netanyahu has accused Hamas of stalling the negotiations and has stated that the group does not want a deal, citing the murder of hostages as evidence. Hamas has offered to release the captives in exchange for an end to the war and the release of Palestinian prisoners. Top security officials believe that the pressure on Hamas could lead to a ceasefire deal being reached.
The Israeli military has acknowledged that a deal is the only way to safely bring home large numbers of captives, as rescue operations in Gaza have proven to be difficult. The country remains divided on how to proceed, but the intense emotions on display during the protests show that the Israeli people are demanding action from their government.
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