Thousands gather in Hostages Square to read Book of Esther on Purim eve

Jessica Steinberg, The Times of Israel's culture and lifestyles editor, covers the Sabra scene from south to north and back to the center

Reading the Book of Esther on Purim night, March 13, 2025 in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square (Paulina Patimer / Hostages Families Forum)
Reading the Book of Esther on Purim night, March 13, 2025 in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square (Paulina Patimer / Hostages Families Forum)

Thousands come to Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square on Thursday night for the Purim eve reading of the Book of Esther, which tells the story of the biblical heroine Queen Esther saving the Jewish people from extermination in what is now modern-day Iran.

The gathering, which includes Israelis from different communities, sectors and denominations, includes a call for the return of the 59 remaining hostages in one release.

Meirav Leshem Gonen, mother of freed hostage Romi Gonen participates in the event.

Meanwhile, hundreds gather at Begin Road, a short walk away from Hostages Square, where hostage family members and supporters are spending a sixth night in the encampment as they continue calling for the release of all the remaining hostages in Gaza.

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