Thousands in Tel Aviv Demand End to Gaza Conflict Amid Tensions

Thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv on the evening of March 15, 2024, calling for an immediate end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The protest took place at the Hostage Square, just two days before a scheduled meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump. Demonstrators displayed a large banner reading, “Bring all hostages home now,” highlighting their urgent demands.

Among the speakers was Lišaj Miran-Lavi, the wife of Omri Miran, one of the hostages still held in Gaza. She directly appealed to President Trump, urging him to use his influence over Netanyahu to bring an end to the suffering. “The only thing that can prevent collapse into the abyss is a complete and global agreement that ends the war and returns all hostages and soldiers home,” she stated. Her remarks underscored the growing desperation felt by families of those still missing.

The protests come amidst a backdrop of rising tensions within the Israeli government. Itmar Ben Gvir, the far-right Minister for National Security, warned Netanyahu that he lacks the mandate to end the conflict without the complete defeat of Hamas. In a post on social media, Ben Gvir asserted, “Mr. Prime Minister, you do not have a mandate to end the war without the complete defeat of Hamas.” This reflects the increasing influence of far-right factions within the government, which oppose any agreements regarding hostage releases.

The conflict, which escalated following a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, has led to devastating consequences. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 1,219 Israelis, with 47 hostages still believed to be held by Hamas. In retaliation, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched a significant offensive against Gaza, which has reportedly resulted in casualties exceeding 65,926 according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, a figure that the United Nations considers reliable.

As the conflict continues, the international community remains engaged. The ongoing situation has been a central topic at the 80th General Assembly of the United Nations in New York, where discussions surrounding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza are paramount. The urgency of the protests in Tel Aviv reflects the deepening concern among Israeli citizens regarding the safety of hostages and the growing toll of the conflict.

The coming days will be crucial as Netanyahu navigates his precarious coalition, facing pressure from both his far-right allies and the public. The outcome of his meeting with President Trump may shape the future direction of Israel’s military strategy and its approach to resolving the hostage situation.