‘We need unity’ – Hostage’s father slams upcoming strike for deal

After announcing a nationwide strike to pressure the government to end the war, some hostage families are expressing opposition to the planned protests.

By World Israel News Staff

The father of an Israeli hostage held in Gaza for more than 22 months has voiced staunch opposition to a planned nationwide strike this Sunday, warning that protests aimed at ending the war ultimately strengthen the Hamas terror group.

Earlier this week, an organization representing some hostage families called for large-scale action to pressure the Israeli government into securing a deal with Hamas to release the captives.

But not all families of Israeli hostages agree with that approach. One father of a kidnapped Israeli, appearing on Channel 14, delivered an impassioned plea against the plan.

“Stop working against us and manipulating us! We are fighting for the kidnapped no less than you are,” said Tzivka Mor, father of Eitan, who was abducted from the Nova Music Festival on October 7.

Mor urged the Israeli public “not to take part in this strike on Sunday — on the contrary, let’s strengthen our unity and support the bereaved families, the soldiers, and the wounded.”

He also addressed left-wing, anti-government activists, who have accused those supporting the war of abandoning the captives.

“Stop aiming your arrows at us — aim them at Hamas, which is holding our children! If all these arrows were directed at Hamas and Qatar, my son would already be home. But apparently, it’s more important for some to direct all the poison at us,” Mor said.

His sentiments were echoed by the Tikva Forum, an umbrella group for hostage families and relatives of fallen soldiers, which opposes deals with Hamas and advocates continuing the war until a decisive victory over Hamas is achieved.

“Precisely now, in this time of national challenge, we must remember who the real enemy is — the one who massacred us on October 7, still abuses the hostages, and starves them! We must direct our energy toward strengthening Israel, not weakening it,” the group said in a statement.

“Instead of striking — let’s act. Instead of stopping — let’s unite. There are wounded people in hospitals who need a hug, soldiers who need equipment, and families waiting for support. Each of us can choose today to help strengthen the people of Israel through volunteerism, donations, mutual aid, and positive action.”