Protesters rally in Auckland in support of Palestine

Hundreds of people waving Palestinian flags gathered in central Auckland today, calling for a ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas. The crowds gathered in Aotea Square from 2pm today for the Rally for Palestine protest, with one woman pictured holding a "Ceasefire" sign and others holding "Free Palestine" placards. The rally comes after Hamas freed two American hostages and expectations grow that Israel is readying for an offensive into the Gaza strip. Photo: The New Zealand HeraldIsrael says the offensive is aimed at rooting out Hamas militants who rule the Gaza Strip. The two Americans, Judith Raanan and her 17-year-old daughter Natalie, were out of the Gaza Strip and in the hands of the Israeli military, an army spokesman said.