As Israel’s Cabinet debated Gaza strategy, anguished families of hostages demanded leaders accept Hamas’ deal “no matter the cost,” warning Netanyahu and appealing directly to Trump for intervention.
On Sunday evening, families of hostages held by Hamas gathered outside Israel’s Security Cabinet meeting, demanding the government accept the latest deal on the table — even if it requires meeting Hamas’ conditions.
Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan Zangauker, blasted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his ministers:
“Your Cabinet members boast about thwarting deals. Now there is a deal on the table — one that could guarantee the return of all hostages, living and deceased, and end the war. Instead, you are sacrificing my child, condemning the deceased to disappear, and sacrificing IDF soldiers. Enough! People of Israel, take to the streets every day and demand a comprehensive agreement and an end to the war!”
Michel Illouz, father of hostage Guy Illouz, who was murdered in captivity, delivered a searing warning:
“Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu: 20 hostages will return alive. If they don’t, you will have blood on your hands. And I address Trump and the United States administration — PLEASE HELP US! Send our people back home. All the hostages in one deal, without stages, immediately.”
Macabit Mayer, aunt of hostages Gali and Ziv Berman, condemned the Cabinet’s paralysis as her relatives approach their 700th day in captivity:
“How do you sleep at night? You destroyed Hamas’ military capabilities and boasted of victories. But if 48 hostages return in coffins, what will you boast about? Gali and Ziv are nearing a second birthday in captivity. You have ten days to end this. Don’t let them mark another birthday in Gaza.”
The demonstration reflected the desperation and fury of hostage families who say the government is stalling while their loved ones suffer, with many now turning to direct appeals to the United States for decisive intervention.
