Thousands Demand Gaza Hostages Release Amid Truce Talks Breakdown

Emily Damari, a former hostage held by Hamas for 13 months, recounted her traumatic experience in Gaza and urged global leaders to expedite the release of the 50 remaining hostages, including her friends. She described severe mistreatment, torture, and inhumane living conditions during captivity. Former hostage Or Levy highlighted that failures in peace negotiations directly harm hostages, calling for a comprehensive deal to release all captives without partial or selective exchanges. Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch emphasized the need for a ceasefire, humanitarian aid access, and the release of hostages, while warning against allowing terrorist groups to prevail, which would have global repercussions. Tens of thousands protested across Israel demanding the release of hostages and an end to the Gaza conflict amid stalled negotiations. Additionally, Gaza faces a worsening humanitarian crisis, exemplified by the death of a five-month-old from starvation, underscoring the urgent need for increased aid amid Israeli blockades.