A protest in Jerusalem Wednesday turned violent as clashes broke out between “Israeli” police and activists who demanded the release of the captives currently held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The demonstrators tipped over garbage cans, lit fires, launched fireworks, and blocked traffic.

The situation escalated when protesters surrounded the “Israeli” Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir, after which police intervened and escorted him to safety as he responded to the protesters by waving back at the crowd, a gesture that some onlookers interpreted as deliberately provocative, further fueling the already charged atmosphere.

Protesters chanted loudly, voicing their demands and discontent, while police responded with force to control the crowd and push back the demonstrators.

Also Read: Senior Hamas officials says movement is “awaiting response” in ceasefire negotiations

Senior Hamas official Khalil Al-Hayya stated Wednesday that the movement is currently awaiting “Israel” and the mediators’ response to the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip - after the movements submitted its stipulations at an earlier time.

Al-Hayya, in statements made to Al-Jazeera, said that the lack of progress made in the negotiations is due to “Israeli” obstinacy, adding that Hamas is “serious” about releasing the captives in a “serious” framework of negotiations and agreements.

“We do not want to keep out prisoners [here].”

“Israel” previously rejected a proposal to exchange one “Israeli” soldier for 50 Palestinian prisoners, including 30 with life sentences - according to Al-Hayya.

Al-Hayya reiterated Hamas’ previously-stated demands in the negotiations, which are the Israeli Occupation’s complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip in addition to a ceasefire.

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