Israelis Rally for Hostages in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square
Hundreds of thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square on Saturday night, hoping it would be the final vigil for the hostages taken to Gaza two years ago.
Massive posters of the 48 expected hostages, including 20 alive, surrounded the square under the terms of a ceasefire struck on Friday.
- Demonstrators carried signs thanking U.S. President Donald Trump for his role in the deal.
- Hostage families expressed excitement and grief at the prospect of reuniting with their loved ones or receiving their remains.
This is the most powerful sight
Three American Jews, Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and Ivanka Trump, were key figures in the rally, having played a role in pushing negotiations between Israel and Hamas forward. Witkoff was visibly emotional, while Kushner and Ivanka Trump drew applause.
Author's summary: Israelis rally for hostages in Tel Aviv.