Pro-Israel Demonstrators Call for Hostage Release at UN Security Council

During a United Nations Security Council meeting on Wednesday, two women interrupted proceedings to demand the release of hostages held in Gaza. The rare protest, led by Yaffa Ben-David, head of the Israel Teachers Union, highlighted the urgent call for action from the international community.

Ben-David, speaking to Israeli media, emphasized her sense of duty to influence the UN's actions. “It’s my duty to influence in every place I can, even if it means I’m expelled from the hall,” she stated. Ben-David and another woman, who held a sign reading “the people of Israel lives” in Hebrew with a Star of David, called for the UN to prioritize human life and the liberation of hostages.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, chairing the meeting, appeared confused by the interruption. “I don’t understand. Speak more clearly,” he said, before asking one of the women to articulate their message clearly.

Ben-David later clarified her message, stating, “It’s time for the U.N. to understand that this is about human life and that we, the people of Israel, won’t give up on a single hostage.” She highlighted the plight of Ohad Yahalomi, a hostage married to one of her teachers, expressing deep empathy for the affected families.

A UN official reported that the women were asked to leave the chamber and did so peacefully. Ben-David shared on Facebook that she raised Yahalomi’s picture and voiced the demand for the hostages’ release, reinforcing her commitment to advocating for the families of the captives.

The Security Council has been criticized by Israel for its limited focus on the hostages’ situation. Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan, who addressed the council shortly before the protest, marked the 30th anniversary of Hezbollah’s bombing of the AMIA Jewish community center in Buenos Aires. Erdan highlighted Iran’s malign influence and called for the council to address the broader implications of Iran’s actions in the Middle East.

Erdan’s remarks also pointed to the failure of the Security Council to adequately address the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach that includes Iran’s role in perpetuating violence.

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov also criticized the Security Council’s inefficacy, albeit from a different perspective. He noted that the council’s resolutions have failed to halt the war, blaming the United States’ support for Israel for perpetuating the conflict.

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield reiterated the need for Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposal, stating that the framework backed by President Joe Biden remains in place. “There are still gaps to be closed, and this council must keep pressure on Hamas to accept the deal,” she said, highlighting the urgency of implementing the ceasefire without delay.

As tensions persist, the protest by Ben-David and her colleague underscores the desperation and determination of those advocating for the hostages' release, calling for renewed international focus and action.

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