Israeli protesters on Tuesday blocked highways and clamored for a ceasefire that would free hostages still in Gaza, even as Israeli leaders moved forward with plans for an offensive into Gaza City they argue is needed to defeat Hamas.

Thousands marched in Tel Aviv on Tuesday calling for a deal to bring back the remaining hostages still being held in Gaza and to end the war.

Israel's Hostages and Missing Families Forum branded the day the 'National Day of Struggle.'

A former hostage, Sharon Aloni Cunio, told protesters at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv that a deal is on the table and must be implemented.

"There is a proposal on the table that Hamas has agreed to. The Americans want the hostage back, the Chief of Staff says we need to go for a deal now," said Aloni Cunio.

Hamas took 251 hostages on Oct. 7, 2023, in the attack that also killed about 1,200 people and triggered the war.

Most hostages have been released during previous ceasefires. Israel has managed to rescue only eight hostages alive.

Fifty remain in Gaza, and Israeli officials believe around 20 are still alive.

Israel’s military offensive has killed 62,819, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which says around half were women and children.

The count does not distinguish between fighters and civilians.

The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals.

The U.N. and independent experts consider it the most reliable source on war casualties. Israel disputes its figures but has not provided its own.

AP Video shot by Shlomo Mor