Thousands of Israelis participated in a nationwide strike on Sunday. The protests supported families of hostages held in Gaza. They called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate with Hamas for peace and the release of captives.
Protesters carried Israeli flags and photos of the hostages. Whistles, drums, and horns filled rallies across the country. Some demonstrators blocked streets and highways, including the main road between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
Anat Angrest, mother of hostage Matan Angrest, spoke at a rally in Tel Aviv. She said, “Today, everything stops to remember the highest value: the sanctity of life.”
Israeli actress Gal Gadot also met with hostage families. Many businesses allowed workers to join the strike. Schools were closed for summer break, so they were not affected. A large rally was planned for the evening in Tel Aviv.
By early afternoon, police detained 38 protesters. Some clashes occurred as protesters blocked roads. The protests paused briefly when air raid sirens sounded. A missile from Yemen was intercepted without damage.
Prime Minister Netanyahu told his cabinet that ending the war without defeating Hamas would hurt hostage talks. He said the military plans to take control of Gaza City. This move faces opposition from many Israelis and hostage families.
About 50 hostages remain in Gaza. Officials believe around 20 are still alive. The Hostages Families Forum urged quick action to save the captives.
Peace talks broke down in July. Hamas demands an end to the war before freeing hostages. Netanyahu insists Hamas must not remain in power.
Hamas called the military plan a crime, warning it could displace many Gaza residents. Over 61,000 Palestinians have died in the conflict. Hundreds of Israelis, including soldiers, have also lost their lives.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid praised the protests, saying they show strong Israeli solidarity.
In other related news also read Grok Gaza Genocide Suspension Sparks Confusion After Controversial Comments
