Families Urge Support for Israeli-Hamas Deal Amid Rising Tensions
Einav Tsengauker, the mother of Matan Tsengauker, who was kidnapped in Gaza, has issued a compelling plea to the public, urging them to take to the streets and express support for a deal that could bring the abductees home. This comes against the backdrop of ongoing negotiations and in light of threats from Israeli politicians, including Ben Gabir and Smotrich, to derail the proposal presented by President Joe Biden.
Several families of those kidnapped have called for a public demonstration tomorrow (Tuesday) at 18:00, asking supporters to come with Israeli flags and signs to bridges, intersections, and squares across the country. Their aim is to show overwhelming public support for the release of the abductees, highlighting that recent progress has been made with terrorist organization Hamas allegedly responding positively to the Israeli offer.
Einav Tsengauker emphasized the urgency of public action, stating, "Friends, we are at the moment of truth. We need you with us; the abductees need your voice now. It's time to go out and save lives. Only if the public demonstrates support for the deal will the government be motivated to act."
Biden's Proposal and Netanyahu's Response
US President Joe Biden put forward a three-stage proposal last Friday that includes a ceasefire, the release of prisoners, and the reconstruction of Gaza. This has given new hope to the families of the Israeli detainees, who believe it offers a real chance for the safe return of their loved ones.
Despite the positive response from Hamas, who are open to a ceasefire and the terms of the deal, the families fear that Netanyahu and some extremists in his government could still undermine this opportunity. They stress the need for supporters to vocalize their backing and put pressure on the Israeli Prime Minister to endorse Biden's deal.
In a joint conference held in front of the Ministry of Defense headquarters in Tel Aviv, relatives of the detainees emphasized the necessity of immediate action, warning that any delay could be detrimental. A relative pointed out, "There is a minority blackmailing Netanyahu and threatening the deal, and we must support it and not leave the arena to extremists." The families have called on all Israelis to participate in the demonstrations to ensure the government does not miss this crucial opportunity.
While Netanyahu's office has insisted on a temporary ceasefire that does not conclude the war, Hamas insists on a total ceasefire and full withdrawal of Israeli forces. As indirect negotiations facilitated by Egypt and Qatar continue, the need for public support has never been more critical according to the families.
- The ongoing conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has led to significant casualties. More than 118,000 Palestinians have been reported dead or wounded, the majority of whom are children and women. Amidst the devastation, about 10,000 individuals remain missing.
- Mediation efforts involving Egypt and Qatar, along with participation from the United States, have been ongoing, although the negotiations have faltered repeatedly. Families of those kidnapped are calling for intensified relief efforts and beginning the reconstruction of Gaza as part of the broader deal.
