Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu faced public criticism after meeting the families of captives released from Gaza’s Nuseirat Refugee Camp but not meeting the families of captives released in previous swap deals or bereaved families.
Yair Lapid, Israel’s public broadcaster, criticized Netanyahu for only showing up during successes and disappearing during failures, calling it disgraceful.
Netanyahu’s failure to reach out to bereaved parents like Izhar Shay, whose son was killed during an attack, left many feeling abandoned and angry.
During a press conference, Netanyahu vowed to bring home the remaining captives, amidst criticism for using the hostage release to improve his image.
Following the operation, tens of thousands of Israelis demonstrated in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, demanding a hostage deal and new elections.
The Israeli military operation in Gaza resulted in the deaths of 274 Palestinians and injuries to around 698 others.
The call for justice and compassion for Israeli captives and their families continues as tensions rise in the region.