In addition to the two large rallies in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, hundreds of protesters gathered at locations around the country, also calling for a deal that would bring home the hostages.
Japanese manga artist Makoto Tanaka, who became famous for her manga story about the kidnapping of Noa Argamani, will arrive from Tokyo to be a guest at the festival.
"It's important that we reach a deal so that all the mothers can embrace their children and husbands, just as I hug my mother every morning now," Jan said.
Liora managed to spend her last days with her rescued daughter, who was saved last month by the IDF in Operation Arnon after being held hostage by Hamas for eight months.
"I mourn with the family of Arnon Zamora, who fell during the rescue operation of myself and three other hostages. My heart is with his family," she says.
Noa Argamani, former hostage held by Hamas and rescued by IDF, Yamam, and Shin Bet, does not have rehabilitation plan, doctor says
Only an antisemite would place more blame on Israel for rescuing its hostages than on Hamas for kidnapping them in the first place.
In honor of Noa Argamani reuniting with her mother Liora, who is dying of cancer, this week is a good time to enjoy mother-daughter movies.
"The moment we broke into the apartment where Noa was held, we encountered three terrorists there and quickly neutralized them, reaching Noa's room within seconds."
Israeli forces operated under heavy fire as they broke into the houses where Argamani and the other hostages were staying.
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