Protesters block Israeli streets again

Protests against Netanyahu and the continuation of the Gaza war in the occupied territories have entered a new phase. Families of Israeli captives, along with protest groups, are intensifying pressure on the Tel Aviv cabinet through repeated rallies, calling for a prisoner-exchange deal.

On Saturday morning, a group of demonstrators blocked roads and gathered outside Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence in occupied Jerusalem, demanding an end to the cabinet’s inaction on the captives’ case.

At the same time, Hebrew media reported gatherings outside the homes of the Israeli president and the transportation minister in Tel Aviv. Demonstrations were also held in several cities and key intersections, including Yokneam, Nahalal Junction, Hod Hasharon, Ma’agan Michael Bridge, and Dvorim Bridge.

The families of Israeli captives have announced that next Tuesday a nationwide protest will be held across all regions. The plan includes a march toward the “Hostages’ Square” in Tel Aviv and a general strike.

In their statement, the families declared: “The agreement is on the verge of collapse. On Tuesday, Israel will rise up. Come out of your homes and show solidarity with the hostages. This is now the urgent demand of every Israeli.”

Addressing Netanyahu with irony, the families said: “Leave the Shabbat table and go to the negotiating table.” (The “Shabbat table” refers to the traditional Saturday dinner, implying that instead of relaxing and ignoring the issue, Netanyahu should focus on negotiations.)

They also announced that another protest will be held tonight in Tel Aviv, stressing that “only the people can bring all the captives back.”

Meanwhile, recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump—claiming that fewer than 20 hostages remain alive in Hamas’ custody—sparked anger among the captives’ families. Following his comments, Gal Hirsch, Israel’s hostage affairs coordinator, was forced to clarify in a statement that according to official data, 20 hostages are alive, two others are in critical condition, and 28 have died.