Video: Why Israeli hostages are turning against their government

These relatives of hostages held in Gaza have increased their protests, such as this one blocking a road in Tel Aviv. A year ago, much of Israel rallied behind them. Now they have become polarizing figures. Einav Zangauker was a long-time supporter of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Her son, Matan, was kidnapped from his home last October 7. She is now a vocal critic. The Netanyahu government has stated that it will not stop fighting until Hamas is completely eliminated, something Einav and other hostage families say is unrealistic and could potentially mean a death sentence for their relatives. In the immediate aftermath of October 7, many past political divisions within Israel were put aside in a moment of unity. The hostages’ relatives met with leaders. But as the months passed, frustration grew over the lack of progress in negotiations. Relations between the Netanyahu coalition and many of the hostage families have become openly hostile. Over the past year, Einav has become a prominent voice in the protest movement pushing for an agreement, a movement that many on Israel’s right say leaves the country divided and weak. On October 7, more than 50 people were killed in Einav’s hometown, where most people are government supporters. With the regional conflict escalating and no ceasefire in sight, these hostage families are growing desperate.