Thousands of demonstrators massed in Tel Aviv on Tuesday, seeking to push the government to end the war in Gaza and strike a deal to return hostages, as the security cabinet convened.

The first protests began at daybreak as demonstrators blocked roads in the commercial hub, where they waved Israeli flags and held up pictures of the hostages, AFP journalists reported.

Israeli media said others rallied near the US embassy branch in the city, as well as outside the houses of various ministers.

Hours later as the sun set over Tel Aviv, thousands more gathered in "Hostage Square", which has served as a focal point for the protest movement for months.

People in the crowd sounded air horns, blew whistles and banged on drums as they chanted: "The government is failing us, we won't give up until every hostage is home."

"I'm here first and foremost to protest, and to call for the government to make a deal and bring all the hostages home and to end the war," said demonstrator Yoav Vider, 29.

Following the cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later spoke at an event Tuesday evening, remaining vague about the government's intentions as Israeli media reported the meeting had been inconclusive.

"We have just come from a cabinet meeting. I don't think I can elaborate too much," said........

© Al Monitor