Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has apologized to the country's citizens for failing to bring six hostages back alive.
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Netanyahu. Photo – RBC
This was reported by NBN with reference to BBC
The tragic events came amid growing threats from Hamas, which warned that further military action would result in the remaining hostages being returned to Israel dead.
Large-scale protests against the government's actions continue in the country after Netanyahu declared the need for military control over the Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza, a strategic area that remains a key point of contention with Hamas. The unrest has intensified, with protesters demanding that the government quickly reach a deal to free the remaining hostages.
Thousands of protesters have once again filled the streets of Israel, many of whom came to the rallies with Israeli flags and yellow ribbons – a symbol of solidarity with the captives. In Jerusalem, near the prime minister's residence, the protests became especially tense. According to the Times of Israel, police used aggressive tactics against demonstrators, not hesitating to use brutal physical force.
The situation is also heating up on the international stage. Britain has suspended some arms sales to Israel, citing the risk of violating international law. However, Netanyahu continues to take a hard line despite increasing pressure both from within and from abroad.
Against this backdrop, Israel's largest trade union has declared a general strike, which, according to the organisers, has involved hundreds of thousands of citizens. However, Ben Gurion Airport and much of Tel Aviv's business activity have remained virtually unchanged, allowing right-wing government ministers to claim that the strike has failed.
Meanwhile, the hostages remain in Hamas hands. According to the latest information, 97 people are still missing, and their fate is a matter of grave concern. Hamas, for its part, is toughening its rhetoric, threatening deadly consequences if Israeli pressure continues.
Recall that we previously wrote about Erdogan commenting on Turkey's foreign policy.