Israel Parliament Stormed:
Israel parliament stormed by relatives of Israelis held hostage by Hamas during a committee session in Jerusalem. They demand lawmakers take more action to secure the release of their loved ones in Gaza.
Anger over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal
About 20 relatives expressed growing anger on Monday over Prime Minister Netanyahu’s refusal to deal with Hamas.
One woman held pictures of family members seized in the October 7 Hamas rampage.
The incident triggered a massive Israeli operation in Gaza, resulting in the release of 100 hostages during a November truce.
Approximately 130 hostages still remain held in Gaza.
During a Knesset Finance Committee discussion, a protester pleaded for the return of at least one family member alive.
Protesters in black T-shirts held signs and chanted, demanding the immediate release of the hostages.
Mediation Efforts:
US, Qatari, and Egyptian mediation efforts show little progress in reconciling the two sides.
Netanyahu insists Israel will continue its campaign until Hamas is destroyed.
Hamas demands Israel withdraw and release thousands of Palestinians from prisons for Israeli captives’ release.
The fate of the hostages, with 27 reportedly dead, captures Israel’s attention.
Relatives fear war fatigue could divert focus, turning once-unifying demonstrations more aggressive.
Eject hecklers or protesters
Parliament ushers, known for ejecting hecklers, observed during the commotion in the Knesset Finance Committee.
One lawmaker covered her face with her hands during the disturbance.
Moshe Gafni, the committee chairman and leader of an ultra-Orthodox Jewish party, interrupted an economic briefing to address the protester.
Gafni emphasized the significance of redeeming captives in Judaism, especially in urgent cases for preserving life.
Despite the urgency, he stated that quitting the coalition would not achieve anything.
Rally
Families and supporters of hostages rally near Netanyahu’s residence in West Jerusalem.
They urge the government to negotiate and consider agreements for the hostages’ release.
Gilad Korenbloom, a parent of a hostage, emphasizes the need for the government to ensure citizens’ safety.
Jon Polin, another parent, calls on the government to propose and successfully conclude an agreement for the hostages’ return.
Some demonstrators camp outside Netanyahu’s home and the Knesset, demanding an end to the war or an election.
Netanyahu rejects Hamas conditions for ending the war and releasing hostages, including a complete Israeli withdrawal.
The Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum demands Netanyahu clearly state a commitment to those kidnapped in October.
The forum states that if the prime minister chooses to sacrifice hostages, he should honestly share his position with the public.
