Families of Israeli hostages protest outside Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem

Relatives of Israelis taken hostage have staged a protest outside the residence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Ynet reported.

The demonstration erupted following the launch of an Israeli military assault on Gaza City.

Protesters blocked traffic on several streets, set up a tent camp, and demanded the return of their loved ones. Police have cordoned off Netanyahu’s residence.

On September 15, Axios reported that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) initiated a ground offensive in Gaza City, utilising heavy strikes from helicopters, drones, and artillery to target Hamas infrastructure. 

The operation, part of a broader strategy to seize control of what Israel describes as Hamas's last major stronghold, has already resulted in the demolition of multiple high-rise buildings accused of housing surveillance equipment used by the group. Gaza's Hamas-run Health Ministry reported at least 32 deaths from recent bombardments, including 12 children, as the IDF urged full evacuation of the city ahead of intensified actions. The assault has drawn sharp criticism from hostage families, who warn it endangers the remaining 48 captives, with around 20 believed alive.

Israel's ground operation in Gaza City, codenamed "Operation Gideon's Chariots II," was approved by the security cabinet on August 8, 2025, as an escalation in the nearly two-year war triggered by Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and abducted 251 hostages.

By Khagan Isayev