Israeli protesters call on Trump to end Gaza war

Thousands of Israelis rallied in Tel Aviv on Saturday night, issuing direct appeals to US President Donald Trump to force an end to the war on Gaza and secure the release of the captives.

Protesters packed a public square outside the military headquarters, waving Israeli flags and holding placards with images of the captives. Some carried signs, including one that read: 'Trump’s legacy crumbles as the Gaza war persists'.

"We think that Trump is the only man in the world who has authority over Bibi, that can force Bibi to do this," said Tel Aviv resident Boaz, 40, referring to the Israeli prime minister.

Orna Neutra, the mother of an Israeli soldier who was killed on 7 October, 2023, and whose body is being held in Gaza, accused the government of abandoning its citizens.

“We truly hope that the United States will push both sides to finally reach a comprehensive deal that will bring them home,” she told the rally. Her son, Omer, is also American.