Why Israeli hostage families are turning their backs on the government

Families of hostages held in Gaza have intensified their protests, blocking roads in Tel Aviv. A year ago, many Israelis supported them. Now they have become polarizing figures. Einav Zangauker has been a long-time supporter of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Her son, Matan, was kidnapped from his home on October 7. She now works as a vocal critic. Netanyahu’s government has declared it will not stop fighting until Hamas is completely eliminated, a move Einab and other hostage families say is unrealistic and could mean a death sentence for their families. Immediately after October 7, many of Israel’s past political divisions gave way to a moment of unity. Hostage families met with their leaders. But as the months passed, frustration grew over the lack of progress in negotiations. Relations between Netanyahu’s coalition forces and the families of many of the hostages have become openly hostile. Over the past year, Einav has become a prominent voice in the protest movement pushing for a deal. Many on the Israeli right say the movement makes the country look divided and weak. More than 50 people were killed on October 7 in Einav’s hometown, where most people are government supporters. Now, with regional conflict escalating and no ceasefire agreement in sight, the hostage families are becoming increasingly desperate.