Families of hostages held in Gaza have launched a nationwide protest, demanding the Israeli government pursue a deal for their release. Demonstrators blocked major roads and displayed banners outside the United States Embassy in Tel Aviv, calling for action and criticizing the government's handling of negotiations.
The political-security cabinet is meeting for the first time since Hamas indicated partial willingness to negotiate, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not expected to bring the proposal up for discussion. Senior officials have dismissed Hamas's offer as insufficient, warning that a partial deal could allow the group to retain control of Gaza and end the fighting prematurely.
Some ministers are pushing for a formal vote to reject any partial agreement, while Netanyahu is expected to keep diplomatic options open. Hostage families, speaking at a press conference, accused the government of abandoning its citizens and called on leaders to remain at the negotiating table until all hostages are returned.