Tens of thousands of people came together in central Tel Aviv on Saturday night, holding a massive rally to demand that the Israeli government reach a prisoner swap deal with Palestinian factions. The main goal of the protest was to push for the safe return of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza.

The demonstration took place in what is now widely known as Hostage Square. Families of the hostages, activists, and supporters waved flags and carried signs calling for urgent action. Many wore shirts with the faces of their missing loved ones, pleading for their freedom.

According to Israel's Channel 12, the crowd was one of the largest seen in recent weeks. People shouted slogans asking the government to prioritize negotiations and stop the war-driven delay. There was a strong emotional tone, with speeches from family members who have waited months for answers.

The protesters are pushing for a deal that would involve swapping Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails for Israeli hostages in Gaza. Such a swap has been discussed before but has faced challenges due to political disagreements and ongoing conflict.

Several speakers at the rally criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the situation. They accused the government of neglecting the families and failing to take meaningful steps to resolve the crisis.

This large and emotional protest sends a clear message to Israeli leaders: the public wants an immediate prisoner exchange deal to bring the captives home alive and safe.

Source: https://trt.global/world/live/682d0cd9272976ac4c84461d#6872f70012e7b7811f9b8006