Protests erupted in Israel as negotiators announced a breakthrough in talks to end the Gaza conflict and secure the release of hostages. Some family members of the captives voiced concerns over the terms of the proposed deal, while others voiced their optimism.

Protests erupted across Israel on January 13 as negotiators reported a “breakthrough” in talks aimed at ending the Gaza conflict and securing the release of hostages. Family members of those held by Hamas since the October 7 attack gathered in Tel Aviv, demanding an immediate agreement for their loved ones' release.

Demonstrators carried photos of Israeli Air Force officer Ron Arad, who went missing in 1986 and is believed to have been captured by militants in Lebanon. His fate symbolizes the enduring pain and hope surrounding hostage situations in Israel.

In a separate protest in Jerusalem, a small group of activists wearing white staged a sit-in, calling for the immediate release of all hostages.

Shay Dickmann, the cousin of Israeli hostage Carmel Gat, who was killed in Hamas captivity, expressed hope for a resolution: “I’m hopeful that this time it’s going to happen and we’re going to see 98 people back home.”

However, some family members and supporters voiced strong opposition to the terms of the proposed ceasefire deal, which includes the gradual release of hostages in exchange for Israel’s planned withdrawal from Gaza. 

Jerusalem resident Yaakov Abady, opposing the deal, said: “This deal is a horrible deal. It’s a tragedy. It means abandoning the hostages that are not released in this step... it means releasing thousands of terrorists that are only going to go back to their terrorist ways.”

Earlier on Monday, mediators presented a final draft of the ceasefire deal to both Israel and Hamas, following a reported breakthrough in negotiations. 

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