The square received its current name after the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel, which killed over 360 people and took 253 hostages, mostly from a music festival in the south. The families of the hostages and their supporters started to encamp and gather at the square, given its proximity to the Israel Defense Forces headquarters and the government offices. The square soon became a focal point for the public and the media, as well as a platform for the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, a group created on October 8 to coordinate the activities and demands of the families.
The square has witnessed several developments and changes since its inception, reflecting the course of the war and the negotiations. On October 24, the Tel Aviv city council officially renamed the plaza as ‘Hostages Square’, and installed a large sign with the new name. On November 22, the square erupted in joy and relief, as 50 hostages were released by Hamas as part of a temporary ceasefire and a prisoner swap deal. On November 25, the square hosted a massive rally of 100,000 people to mark ‘50 Days of Hell’ since the attack, and to urge the government to bring back the remaining hostages. On January 13, the square held a 24-hour rally to mark 100 days since the attack, and to express frustration and despair over the lack of progress.
The Features and Activities of ‘Hostages Square’
The square is filled with various features and activities that aim to draw attention and sympathy to the hostages and their families. One of the most prominent features is a 25-meter mock Hamas tunnel, which simulates the conditions and the sounds of the hostages in captivity. Visitors can walk through the dark and narrow tunnel, which is covered with photos and messages of the hostages and their families. Another feature is an empty dinner table, which holds an empty seat for each of the missing hostages, symbolizing their absence and longing.
The square also hosts various activities and events, such as concerts, lectures, workshops, and exhibitions, to educate and engage the public and the media. The square has attracted many visitors and guests, including celebrities, politicians, diplomats, and activists, who have expressed their support and solidarity with the hostages and their families. The square has also become a place for dialogue and debate, as different opinions and perspectives are voiced and heard.
The Significance and Impact of ‘Hostages Square’
‘Hostages Square’ has become a significant and impactful site in Israel and beyond, as it has raised the awareness and the pressure on the issue of the hostages and the war. The square has also become a symbol of solidarity and hope, as it has brought together people from different backgrounds and beliefs, who share a common concern and a common goal. The square has also become a source of inspiration and creativity, as it has showcased the art and the stories of the hostages and their families.
The square has also faced some challenges and criticisms, as it has been accused of being too emotional and too political, and of interfering with the government’s efforts and strategy. The square has also been targeted by some threats and attacks, such as graffiti, vandalism, and rockets, which have caused some damage and fear. The square has also been affected by the weather and the pandemic, which have limited some of the activities and the attendance.
The future of ‘Hostages Square’ is uncertain, as it depends on the outcome of the war and the negotiations. The families and the supporters of the hostages hope that the square will soon be dismantled, as it would mean that the hostages have been returned and the war has ended. However, they also vow to stay at the square until their loved ones are back, and to keep the memory and the message of the square alive.
