Israelis march in Tel Aviv to demand release of hostages held by Hamas

By Abdel Rauf Arnaut

JERUSALEM (AA) – Families of Israelis held captive by Hamas staged a march in Tel Aviv on Tuesday to demand the release of their relatives held hostage in Gaza.

Hundreds of Israelis waved photos of hostages held by the Palestinian group following a cross-border attack on Oct. 7, according to an Anadolu reporter.

The rally was held amid reports of a possible prisoner swap deal between Israel and Hamas.

The Gulf state of Qatar is leading mediation efforts between Hamas and Israel.

Israel estimates that at least 239 Israelis, including both military personnel and civilians, are being held captive by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

As the Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip entered its 39th day, at least 11,180 Palestinians have been killed, including over 7,700 women and children, and more than 28,200 others have been injured, according to the latest figures from Palestinian authorities.

Thousands of buildings, including hospitals, mosques, and churches, have also been damaged or destroyed in Israel's relentless air and ground attacks on the besieged enclave since last month.

The Israeli death toll, meanwhile, is nearly 1,200, according to official figures.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar