Thousands in Israel Rally in Support of Trump as Gaza Hostage Release Looms
Thousands gathered in Tel Aviv to rally for Donald Trump amid Israel’s potential release of hostages by Hamas. US envoy Steve Witkoff addressed the gathering, praising Trump for facilitating the Gaza ceasefire and anticipated hostage release. Despite the cheers for Trump, the crowd voiced discontent when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was mentioned.
Hostage Release Anticipation and International Summit
Under a ceasefire deal, Hamas has 72 hours, until Monday at noon local time, to release 48 hostages. There are concerns about the logistics, though a Hamas official stated the prisoner exchange should begin on schedule. Meanwhile, preparations are underway for a summit in Egypt on Monday, drawing leaders from over 20 countries, including Trump. The summit aims to finalize a peace agreement to end the ongoing conflict.
Impact and Responses in Gaza
As Israeli troops have withdrawn, nearly 500,000 displaced Palestinians returned to northern Gaza. However, widespread destruction met them, leaving many without homes. With aid efforts struggling, only two to three trucks enter Gaza daily, short of the requirements needed to alleviate a severe famine affecting a quarter of Gaza’s population.
The Human Cost of Conflict
The war has taken a significant human toll, with Hamas’s recent attack resulting in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages. In response, Israel’s military operations in Gaza have reportedly led to over 67,000 Palestinian deaths. Amid the chaos, families mourn the loss of loved ones and grapple with the continuing uncertainty.
Community Voices and Criticisms
- Aviv Havron from Tel Aviv highlighted the struggle to resume normalcy without the hostages’ return.
- Shulamit and David Ginat stressed the urgency to end the war, showing support for Trump and disapproval of Netanyahu.
As Gaza faces internal tensions with armed clashes reported, international mediation efforts continue. The summit in Egypt could be pivotal in establishing a resolution to this prolonged conflict.
