Israeli protesters to Trump: End the crisis in Gaza, a Nobel awaits you

(Patria) - Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Israel on Saturday demanding the government secure the release of 49 hostages still held in Gaza, AFP reported last night.

It was the first rally of relatives of hostages since Israel agreed a ceasefire with Iran on June 24 after a twelve-day war, raising hopes that the truce would give momentum to efforts to end the conflict in Gaza and bring the hostages home.

Extraordinary restrictions in place during the war with Iran prevented the usual weekly rally from being held.

The crowd filled "Hostages Square" in central Tel Aviv, waving Israeli flags and placards with images of Israelis abducted by Palestinian militants during the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

The deadly attacks prompted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to launch a fierce military offensive in Gaza, vowing to crush Hamas and free the hostages.

Twenty months and several hostage exchanges later, 49 captives are still being held in Gaza, including 27 the Israeli army says are dead - increasing pressure on Netanyahu's government.

"The war with Iran ended with an agreement. The war in Gaza must end the same way - with an agreement that brings everyone home," the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, the main body representing relatives, said in a statement ahead of the rally.

Some demonstrators called on US President Donald Trump to help secure a ceasefire in Gaza that would free the captives, praising his support for Israel in the conflict with Iran.

"President Trump, end the crisis in Gaza. A Nobel awaits you," read one placard, alluding to a possible peace prize for the US leader.

- I call on Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump. You made brave decisions on Iran. Now make a brave decision to end the war in Gaza and bring them home - said one of the freed hostages, Liri Albag, at the rally.