Protesters rally outside Israel's defence ministry: Video
Anti-government protesters gathered outside the Israeli defence ministry in Tel Aviv calling for action to release the hostages held captive in Gaza since Hamas's October 7 attacks on southern Israel.
"Hamas has been defeated militarily. Why, then, has the government not presented any initiative for a deal which would bring all of our hostages home?" asked Zahiro-Shahar Mor, the nephew of a hostage held in Gaza.
Iran has issued a warning that it will defend itself following Israeli air strikes that reportedly killed at least two Iranian soldiers, escalating fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East.
In response, Israel said that Iran would "pay a heavy price" for any retaliation. The United States, Germany, and Britain have urged Tehran to refrain from further escalating the situation.
The European Union also called for all parties to exercise restraint to avoid an "uncontrollable escalation." Iran, asserting its "right and duty" to defend itself, faced backlash from various regional nations condemning the Israeli attacks.
Hezbollah, Iran's Lebanese ally, launched rocket attacks on northern Israel in retaliation, with the Israeli army reporting that around 80 projectiles were fired across the border.
The Israeli military confirmed it had targeted Iranian missile facilities and military installations, stating that the mission was successful and that their aircraft returned safely. Iran acknowledged the strikes caused "limited damage" but confirmed the death of four soldiers.
Iran's armed forces maintained that while they reserved the right to retaliate, they were prioritizing the establishment of a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon.
Tensions have been heightened since October 1, when Iran executed a missile attack against Israel—marking a rare direct assault. The Israeli response faced criticism from neighbouring countries and further condemnation from Turkey, which called for an end to what it described as "terror created by Israel."
