Israel Erupts in Nationwide Strike as Thousands Demand Immediate Hostage Release
Israel Erupts in Nationwide Strike as Thousands Demand Immediate Hostage Release
Israel witnessed one of its largest coordinated demonstrations since the Gaza conflict began nearly two years ago, as tens of thousands of citizens launched a nationwide grassroots strike and widespread protests on Sunday, demanding the government secure the immediate release of 50 remaining hostages held in Gaza.
The day of action, which organizers estimated involved hundreds of thousands across the country, saw protesters block major roads, close private businesses, and stage rallies in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Demonstrations also took place outside government ministers’ homes. The protests commenced at 6:29 AM, marking the exact time Hamas launched its deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Family members of the hostages, leading the strike alongside the October Council – representing bereaved families from the war – held a press conference in Tel Aviv, declaring an “emergency break” until the hostages are freed. “Today, we stop everything to save the lives of 50 hostages and soldiers,” stated Anat Engrest, whose son Matan is held captive.
The widespread public outcry follows the recent collapse of negotiations in late July, when US and Israeli teams withdrew from talks in Doha, citing Hamas’s alleged lack of good faith. Polls consistently indicate that a large majority of Israelis support a ceasefire deal to facilitate the release of all hostages in exchange for an end to the war.
Vicky Cohen, whose son Nimrod is a hostage, articulated the protesters’ unified demand: “Put an Israeli proposal on the table today for a comprehensive deal – to end the war in exchange for the return of the last hostage.” This intensified pressure comes after the Israeli security cabinet’s decision to expand the war and take over Gaza City, despite military warnings that such operations could endanger the remaining hostages, 20 of whom are believed to still be alive.
While Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed support for the hostage families, members of the government condemned the protests. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu argued that calls to end the war without defeating Hamas would “harden Hamas’s stance and delay the release of our hostages.” Far-right Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir dismissed the strike as a “cynical political maneuver.”
Despite the government’s stance, police reported 38 arrests for disturbing the peace across the country. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, representing most of the remaining captives, announced plans for a protest encampment on the Gaza border, named “Waypoint 50,” to continue pressing for their release.
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