As Israeli society grapples with the consequences of an increasingly directionless war, the families of prisoners held in Gaza have turned their grief into fury. They accuse Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of deliberately obstructing efforts for a prisoner exchange to serve his own political survival. What began as appeals for action has transformed into open condemnation, with relatives claiming their loved ones are being sacrificed for Netanyahu’s hold on power.

Palestinian resistance groups have repeatedly expressed willingness to negotiate an exchange, but these openings have been met with silence or rejection. Instead, Netanyahu has intensified the military campaign in Gaza—escalating attacks with no clear objective. The hostage issue has reportedly been handled behind closed doors, even involving Sarah Netanyahu, whose presence has outraged families and been seen as a grotesque personalisation of a national tragedy.

The families now demand accountability, warning that military pressure alone will not secure the prisoners’ release and only places their lives in greater danger. Public frustration has spilled into the streets and official ceremonies, as relatives confront politicians and call for inquiries into the government’s conduct. Many accuse Netanyahu of using their children as political leverage, prolonging a war that no longer has a clear purpose or plan.

Amid rising public opposition—reflected in polls and protests—Netanyahu's government stands accused of ignoring the will of the people and the pleas of grieving families. Some have even turned to international figures like Donald Trump, hoping for external pressure where domestic channels have failed. Meanwhile, resistance factions remain firm, holding the prisoners and refusing to bow to threats, while Netanyahu clings to power in a nation increasingly fractured from within.