Demonstration in Jerusalem - relatives of captives pressure for a negotiation

Dissent in Jerusalem: Relatives of captives petition for negotiations

, and Administrator

2025 September 15 . 7:29 AM

2 min read

Large-scale demonstration in Jerusalem by the families of hostages, calling for a negotiation... — Large-scale demonstration in Jerusalem by the families of hostages, calling for a negotiation resolution

Protests Erupt in Jerusalem Over Hostage Situation - Relatives of Hostages Urge Negotiations - Demonstration in Jerusalem - relatives of captives pressure for a negotiation

Israel's military offensive in Gaza remains imminent, but a recent development has seen the Israeli army declaring a coastal area in southern Gaza as a 'humanitarian zone'. This move comes as thousands of people, including the Forum of Hostage Families, have been demanding a deal with Hamas, gathering outside the residence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem.

The area of Al-Mawasi near Khan Yunis, already declared a 'humanitarian zone' in December 2023, houses essential humanitarian infrastructure and is reportedly overcrowded. Several other hostages, including Guy Gilboa-Dalal and Alon Ohel, are believed to be held in this area, who will remain there during the planned Israeli offensive.

Hamas, on the other hand, has shown openness to "any ideas and proposals" that would lead to a lasting ceasefire, a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip, the import of humanitarian aid, and the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. They have even published a video showing Gilboa-Dalal, stating he is in the city of Gaza.

Diplomatic efforts to end the conflict are being led by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, with France and Saudi Arabia also involved in mediation talks. These efforts culminated in the "New York Declaration" in July, supported by 17 countries including the UK, Canada, Brazil, and Jordan, aiming at a two-state solution involving Israel and Palestine. The US, as a close ally of Israel, is also pursuing a negotiation approach for a ceasefire and hostage release.

However, the path to a resolution is fraught with challenges. Netanyahu insists on a comprehensive deal in which all hostages are released at once, while Hamas continues to call for the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip. Critics accuse Netanyahu of unnecessarily dragging out the war, and the Forum of Hostage Families criticizes Israel for not responding to Hamas' response to the mediators after three weeks.

Netanyahu is demanding the surrender and disarmament of Hamas, which Hamas rejects. Yet, Hamas supports the mediators' proposal for a ceasefire, adding a layer of complexity to the already tense situation. As the world watches, the hope remains that diplomatic efforts will lead to a peaceful resolution, ensuring the safety of all hostages and bringing an end to the conflict.