Families and relatives of Israeli hostages held in Gaza observed the start of Hanukkah on Wednesday, marking the second consecutive holiday without their loved ones. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum Headquarters reported that a silent protest led by Shift 101 drew thousands of attendees, urging the government to prioritize the release of the hostages. Mothers and female relatives of the hostages, along with supporters, participated in a three-hour silent protest wearing white clothing, demanding an immediate resolution for the return of all hostages.
The vigil was followed by a candle-lighting ceremony at Beit Ariela in Tel Aviv, where Shira Albag, mother of hostage Liri Albag, lit the first candle. Participants gathered to pray for the safe return of the 100 hostages. Shay Dickmann, cousin of hostage Carmel Gat, emphasized the importance of keeping hope alive and expressed the collective desire for the return of all hostages through a negotiated deal.
