"We do not abandon soldiers on the battlefield"

Israelis rally in Tel-Aviv in support of abducted soldiers

Tens of thousands of Israelis rallied in Tel Aviv, putting pressure on the government to secure the release of two soldiers captured by Hezbollah and a third held captive by Gaza militants.

"We do not abandon soldiers on the battlefield," read white banners emblazoned in red hanging behind the stage in Rabin Square and carried in the sombre crowd aloft by teenagers, the elderly, mothers, fathers, children and scouts.