Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Israel for a second consecutive night, making two key demands - immediate elections and urgent negotiations for the release of over 100 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. This united movement of families of hostages and the political opposition poses a significant threat to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government, known for their far-right policies.

The protests began at "Hostage Square" in Tel Aviv, with the demonstrators waving Israeli flags and calling for the removal of Netanyahu, the country's longest-serving leader. Netanyahu responded to the demonstrators from inside the parliament in Jerusalem, acknowledging the pain of the hostage families and defending his efforts to secure their release.

Netanyahu argued against holding elections at such a crucial moment, claiming it would paralyze the country and ultimately benefit Hamas. However, the families of hostages expressed frustration and criticized the government for not doing enough to bring their loved ones home alive. They cited testimonies from released hostages, suggesting that the captives were able to listen to the radio and watch television, raising questions about the government's approach to the crisis.

The four-day rally, organized by the Hostage Families Forum, aims to either push the government to revive hostage negotiations or lead to the collapse of Netanyahu's coalition, which is considered the most right-wing in Israeli history. Adding to the pressure, the US has expressed alarm about the war in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis it has caused, urging Israel to hold new elections.

The families of the hostages have reached a breaking point with Netanyahu, according to Josh Drill, a leader of a group called Change Generation. Drill emphasized that their involvement in the anti-government movement is driven by a desire to bring their loved ones home, as they see Netanyahu as an obstacle to achieving this goal.

The protests have not been without clashes with law enforcement. In Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, demonstrators blocked main roads and clashed with police, mirroring the unrest witnessed leading up to the initial hostage incident. Protesters argue that their country is being led by a government that poses a threat to not only their existence but also their values.

Amidst the protests, Israel has sent a low-level delegation to Cairo for indirect truce talks with Hamas. If progress is made, the heads of Mossad and Shin Bet will join the negotiations. However, families of the hostages fear that time is running out and demand immediate action.

Former hostages continue to share testimonies about the abuse suffered during their captivity, further highlighting the urgency of the situation. Liri Albag, who has been held underground and in private homes, was forced to carry out domestic chores for her captors, according to testimonies relayed to her family.

As the protests intensify and the voices calling for action grow louder, the pressure mounts on Netanyahu and his government to address the demands of the families of hostages and the opposition who seek immediate elections and the swift release of those held captive in Gaza.