Israel’s defense ministry headquarters has historically been seen as a symbol of power, but for the families of hostages gathered beneath it, the building now represents anguish. Relatives filled the plaza opposite the 17-storey Matcal tower to demand that the state of Israel, which was created to protect Jews, does everything possible to save the hostages in Gaza. This escalation of Israel’s assault has caused dread among the families, raising questions about the government’s plan to negotiate releases and the army’s strategy to free hostages.
Haim Rubinstein, a spokesperson for the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, spoke about the lack of information regarding the situation and the need for clarity. After three weeks of complaints, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to meet the families on Saturday evening. However, it remains uncertain what reassurances he can offer, as there seems to be no plan to negotiate prisoner exchanges or pause the offensive.
The defense minister, Yoav Gallant, stated that the operation will continue until a new order is given. This statement is seen as ominous by the families gathered near the defense ministry. Zeev Scherman, a relative of one of the hostages, called for a swap of hostages with Palestinians in Israeli jails. Shelly, another family member, implored the government to prioritize the release of the captives and called it a second holocaust.
For Yarid Shabibi, the conflict boils down to a desperate longing for the return of her cousin, Noa Argamani, who was abducted and her abduction was widely circulated online. The families and their supporters have varying attitudes towards Palestinians. Dahlia expressed concern for the Gazan people and called for a Palestinian state, while Ayelet Samerano accused the captors of being animals. She accused the government of leaving families in an information vacuum but expressed confidence in the army’s actions.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum released a statement criticizing the government for leaving families in the dark and expressed the hope for an explanation. The forum has not called for a ceasefire or prisoner exchange, but they are urging the government to bring back their loved ones and provide them with a plan.
