Tel Aviv Rally Reflects Hope as Ceasefire Deal Awaits Implementation
TEL AVIV, Israel – Thousands gathered in Tel AvivS Hostage Square on Saturday, expressing cautious optimism following Hamas‘ acceptance of a proposed ceasefire deal with Israel. The rally, fueled by chants and signs demanding the return of hostages, comes after months of sustained conflict and escalating calls for a resolution.
The potential agreement, brokered with U.S. involvement, hinges on a phased release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a cessation of fighting. Hamas has stated it will only disarm within the framework of establishing a Palestinian state, a condition not directly addressed in former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal.
Trump, in a post on his social media platform Saturday, urged Hamas to ”move quickly, or else all bets will be off,” and declared he would ”not tolerate delay.” He also thanked Israel for a purported temporary halt to bombing, a claim disputed by Palestinian health authorities who reported at least 67 deaths from Israeli attacks since dawn Saturday. Israeli media indicated the military had been instructed to transition to defensive operations.
The atmosphere at the rally was charged with emotion, as participants recited chants honed over the two years of war.Omer Shem Tov, a hostage previously released in a prisoner exchange, led a call-and-response, shouting “Bring them back!” to a resounding chorus of “Now!” from the crowd. Actor Lior Ashkenazi also addressed the gathering, beginning his remarks with thanks to Trump.
Among those present, Dor Jaliff, a 35-year-old social worker, acknowledged Trump’s impact despite not identifying as a supporter. “I wish our government would consider the hostages as the top priority like Trump does.Look, I’m not happy Trump is getting involved in Israel’s affairs, but at least someone is doing the job,” he said.
Mindy Rabinowitz, 57, a college administrator, attended the rally with his family, wearing a sticker marking the 729th day as the conflict began. He explained that he had almost decided to stay home before the ceasefire proclamation. “I turned to my wife and said, ‘Maybe we shouldn’t stay home and watch this on TV. We should go,'” Rabinowitz recounted. ”maybe it’s the last time we’ll be in that square.”
The rally underscores the profound desire for an end to the conflict and the return of loved ones, even as the implementation of the ceasefire deal remains uncertain.
