Tisha B’Av gathering at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv brings religious and secular Israelis together

Thousands gather at the so-called Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, to mark the Tisha B’Av fast and call for the release of captives held by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, bringing together religious and secular Israelis from across the country.

Under the banner, “United for their return,” the event begins with prayers and the readings of the Book of Lamentations followed by discussion circles and sharing of testimony from survivors of the brutal Hamas massacre.

A call for unity from President Isaac Herzog is screened at the event.

“I watch with great concern as these dangerous winds of division return to us even now, threatening our unity, our existence as one people in one state,” he says in the pre-recorded message.

“We are all as a nation in testing days. We must stand and overcome them together, in partnership, brotherhood, and with the love of Israel.”

Reading of Megillat Eicha on the eve of Tisha B'Av at the Hostages' Square in Tel Aviv: Israelis from across the country gathered for the communal prayer. ✡️❤️ pic.twitter.com/JEG50qOIwb

— Adam Albilya – אדם אלביליה (@AdamAlbilya) August 12, 2024