Thousands of Israelis gathered outside the Ministry of Defense on Saturday, demanding that the government prioritize the release of the 59 hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza over extending military operations, according to Al Jazeera.

The demonstration occurred after PM Benjamin Netanyahu's government authorized the mobilisation of up to 60,000 reservists, indicating plans to escalate the assault on Gaza. Protesters warned that any violence could threaten the hostages' lives and hinder negotiations for their release.

Many criticised Netanyahu’s strategy, accusing him of using military pressure rather than pursuing a diplomatic solution. A short-lived ceasefire late last year led to a hostage-prisoner exchange, but no further releases have occurred since the fighting resumed, Al Jazeera reported.

The rally reflected growing public frustration with the government’s handling of the crisis and fears that time is running out to bring the captives home safely.