Israeli President Isaac Herzog made a significant appearance at Hostages Square on Sunday, joining demonstrators during a nationwide strike calling for the release of hostages still held in Gaza and an end to the ongoing war.

During his visit, Herzog met with families of those abducted and emphasized that the plight of the hostages remains at the forefront of Israel's national concerns. "There's no Israeli who doesn't want them back home," the president declared. "We can argue about philosophies, but truly, the people of Israel want our brothers and sisters back home."

Herzog directed a heartfelt message to the approximately 50 hostages believed to be still held by Hamas in Gaza, with at least 20 thought to be alive. "We haven't forgotten you for a moment," he assured. "We're making every effort to bring you back home."

In a notable moment, the president switched to English to appeal directly to international leaders and media, calling for increased pressure on Hamas. "Our sons and daughters have been in the dungeons of Gaza for 681 days. We want them back home as soon as possible," Herzog stated emphatically.

"The world should want them back home as soon as possible. Stop being hypocrites. Apply real pressure, no deals, no negotiations, until Hamas releases them," he continued, standing alongside Sharon Sharabi, brother of released hostage Eli Sharabi, and Yael Adar, mother of fallen soldier Tamir Adar, whose body remains in Gaza.

The Israeli president emphasized that the hostages' return is not merely an Israeli issue but one of global moral responsibility. "They are the most important issue on world affairs, and we want to see them back home as soon as possible," he said.

According to his office, Herzog also held private meetings with several hostages' families to hear their testimonies and express his solidarity during this difficult time.

The nationwide strike has seen Israelis from various sectors unite in their demand for the government to secure the release of all remaining hostages and bring an end to the prolonged conflict that has devastated the region.

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