In a show of solidarity, hundreds of thousands gathered in Tel Aviv ahead of the expected release of Israeli hostages by Hamas. The event saw US special envoy Steve Witkoff assure the crowd, “The hostages are coming home,” while also commending former President Donald Trump for facilitating a ceasefire agreement. This deal includes plans for the return of hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attack.
Anticipation of Hostage Release
Palestinian officials reported that approximately 500,000 displaced residents returned to northern Gaza as Israeli troops withdrew. The city faces extensive destruction after the conflict. The anticipated negotiations to finalize a ceasefire will be hosted by Egypt, with over 20 international leaders, including Trump, confirmed to attend a summit in Sharm El-Sheikh.
Involvement of Global Leaders
- French President Emmanuel Macron
- UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
Both leaders are set to join the discussions on Monday. Trump’s visit to Israel is also scheduled for that day, highlighting the ongoing international focus on the region.
Hostage Negotiations Underway
Under the ceasefire agreement announced on Thursday, Hamas has until 12:00 local time on Monday to release the remaining 48 hostages, of which 20 are believed to be alive. Osama Hamdan, a senior Hamas official, confirmed that the prisoner exchange was set to begin as planned.
Impact on Families
Aviv Havron, who lost family members during the October attack, emphasized the critical need for the return of hostages. At the rally, he shared his distress over the loss and the importance of healing for the community.
Mixed Reactions in Tel Aviv
The Tel Aviv crowd also expressed dissatisfaction toward Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Attendees voiced their frustrations over his administration’s failure to prevent the initial Hamas assault and the ongoing conflict.
Hamas’s Strategic Moves
In response to the shifting dynamics, Hamas has mobilized additional fighters to establish control over recently vacated regions of Gaza. This move comes amid internal strife and concerns over governance in the aftermath of the conflict. Reports indicate clashes between Hamas forces and local families, adding to the chaos in the region.
Humanitarian Crisis Continues
Many returning Palestinians found their homes destroyed. Eyewitness accounts describe the devastation, with residents lamenting their lost memories.
The World Food Programme (WFP) aims to increase aid as conditions in Gaza worsen. Despite this, reports indicate that only a limited number of aid trucks are currently entering. An alarming statistic from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification indicates that around 500,000 people in Gaza are facing famine conditions.
Casualties from the Conflict
The October 7 attacks resulted in over 1,200 deaths and the taking of 251 hostages. Israel’s military response has reportedly led to over 67,000 Palestinian casualties in Gaza, deepening the crisis on all fronts.
