Mothers of Hostages Hold Silent Protest Outside Israeli Prime Minister’s Office

Jerusalem, Israel — In a heartfelt demonstration outside the Prime Minister’s Office on Thursday, dozens of Israeli mothers gathered for the fourth day of silent protest, urging the government to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The group, calling themselves “Shift 101,” is composed of family members advocating for their loved ones’ return. Emphasizing a non-violent, non-political approach, the group aims to keep public attention on the hostages’ plight without engaging in chanting or political slogans.

Thursday’s gathering saw mothers and supporters sitting in the road outside the Prime Minister’s Office, their silence symbolizing both loss and resilience. Participants wore white as a mark of unity and peace, while some blocked the street in a symbolic act to call for action.

Devora Idan, whose son Tsachi is held hostage, expressed her anguish and frustration, stating, “There are no words.”  Idan also shared her pain over the recent tragic losses her family has endured, with her son’s 18-year-old daughter murdered during the October 7 attacks and her nephew killed in Lebanon.

The silent protest, which began earlier in the week, has shifted locations each day to raise visibility and urgency.

The group previously protested outside the Knesset and near the prime minister’s residence on Aza Street. Despite the change in locations, the group’s core message has remained steadfast—urging the public and authorities to help bring the hostages home.

Niva Wenkert, another mother whose son Omer is held hostage, spoke about the profound impact of the silent protest.

“The strength of persistence, and determination, and quiet, and [wearing] white, beats everything,” she said. Wenkert described a powerful moment in which she and a small group of mothers sat at the center of the crowd, surrounded by supporters.

“It was the first time I felt the true meaning of ‘our heart is with you,’” she said, expressing gratitude for the solidarity shown by the protesters.

At one point, the group blocked an intersection not originally planned as part of the demonstration, an act that Wenkert admitted made her feel apprehensive.

“My heart was going at 200 [beats per minute] because I am a law-abiding person,” she explained, adding that this experience allowed her to break her usual boundaries as a show of strength for her son.

The mothers leading Shift 101 have stressed that their protest is focused solely on the hostages, not as a political statement. Their silent approach seeks to unite the nation in support of their cause.

“It cannot be that there are 101 hostages, and this does not bring the nation out to the streets,” Wenkert urged, calling on more participants to join the protest in solidarity.

Shift 101’s efforts reflect the ongoing pain and perseverance of families who have spent months waiting and advocating for their loved ones’ return.

As the group continues its silent protest, they hope that their message will resonate, urging both government and citizens to rally for the safe return of the hostages.