Israeli Protesters Block Highways, Demand Ceasefire to Secure Hostages’ Return Nine Months into Gaza Conflict

In Tel Aviv, Israel, protesters blocked highways on Sunday, calling for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s resignation and a cease-fire to secure the return of hostages held by Hamas, marking nine months since the Gaza conflict began. The protests intensified after Hamas dropped a key demand, seeking a lasting cease-fire while Netanyahu remains committed to continuing the fight until Hamas is dismantled.

The “Day of Disruption” started at 6:29 a.m., the same time Hamas launched its initial rockets on October 7. Demonstrators blocked major roads and protested outside ministers’ homes. Near the Gaza border, 1,500 balloons were released to symbolize those killed and taken hostage. Protester Hannah Golan criticized the government’s handling of the crisis.

Hamas’ attack resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and 250 hostages, while Israel’s response has killed over 38,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Currently, about 120 hostages remain captive, with over 100 released in a November cease-fire. Israel believes more than 40 of the remaining hostages are dead.

The U.S. has proposed a phased cease-fire, with Hamas releasing the remaining hostages in exchange for a lasting cease-fire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. However, Hamas wants guarantees that the war will end, while Israel insists on the right to resume fighting if hostage negotiations stall.

Israel continues to combat Palestinian militants in Gaza, issuing new evacuation orders for parts of Gaza City. The Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis reported retrieving three handcuffed bodies near the Kerem Shalom crossing, suspected of securing humanitarian aid. The Israeli military is investigating these reports.

Thousands of Palestinians have been detained since the war began, with released detainees and some Israelis alleging torture and harsh conditions, which Israeli authorities deny. Israeli airstrikes recently killed 13 Palestinians, including Hamas official Ihab al-Ghussein. The military reported targeting a militant complex near a school and a Hamas weapons facility, while announcing the death of an Israeli officer in Rafah, bringing the total Israeli military fatalities to 680.