Thousands Rally in Israel Demanding Hostage Deal on 300th Day Since October 7

Aug 3, 2024, 01:50 AM

Thousands of Israelis rallied across the country, particularly in Tel Aviv, to mark 300 days since the October 7 abduction of hostages by Hamas and their captivity in Gaza. The demonstrators, including families of the captives, demanded a hostage deal and a ceasefire. The protests come amid reports of a growing rift between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli security officials. Netanyahu has been accused of not wanting a ceasefire or a hostage deal, with some officials claiming he prioritizes his political survival over the hostages' release. A tense meeting reportedly took place between Netanyahu and the heads of the Israeli security services, where Netanyahu was described as shouting and calling them 'weak.' Defense Minister and the army’s chief of staff have urged Netanyahu to accept a deal, warning that his stance endangers the hostages. Israeli Channel 12 reported on these developments.