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

By Said Amouri

JERUSALEM (AA) - Nearly 200 Israelis rallied Saturday in Tel Aviv to demand the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper said the demonstration took place near the Israeli Defense Ministry building.

Protesters demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and blamed him for the current situation.

Hamas’ armed wing, Al-Qassam Brigades, said Oct. 17 that it is holding as many as 250 Israelis in captivity.

The Al-Qassam Brigades released two Americans on humanitarian grounds Friday, which it said was in response to efforts by Qatar.

The conflict in Gaza, under Israeli bombardment and blockade since Oct. 7, began when Palestinian resistance group Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood -- a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea and air.

Hamas said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

At least 4,385 Palestinians, including 1,756 children, have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza. The figure stands at more than 1,400 in Israel.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar