Tens of thousands of Israelis rallied in the streets on Sunday night, with a general strike called in response to the government’s handling of the Gaza war, particularly following the deaths of six hostages held by Hamas. The protests, which saw an estimated 100,000 participants in Tel Aviv and additional demonstrations in Jerusalem, have intensified pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to secure a ceasefire deal and bring the remaining hostages home.
The strike, the first since March 2023, is expected to disrupt major parts of Israel’s economy on Monday, including government and municipal offices, schools, private businesses, and Ben Gurion International Airport, which will close temporarily.
The demonstrations involved significant civil disobedience, including the blocking of the Ayalon highway in Tel Aviv. Protesters voiced their frustration with Netanyahu’s administration, accusing it of failing to act decisively and bring about a ceasefire deal.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich attempted to challenge the legality of the strike, arguing it was unjustified and harmful to the economy. However, the strike proceeded, reflecting widespread anger and disappointment among the public.
The six hostages, identified as Carmel Gat, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Eden Yerushalmi, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, and Ori Danino, were found dead in Gaza tunnels during recent fighting. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that the hostages had been murdered by Hamas terrorists shortly before their bodies were discovered.
The Israeli government, while condemning Hamas for the murders, has faced criticism for its failure to secure a deal that could have prevented the deaths. Security officials have suggested that Netanyahu’s insistence on retaining strategic territories in Gaza may have impeded negotiations.
The general strike has been supported by the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, who argue that it might pressure the government to achieve a ceasefire. Families of the hostages and many demonstrators are calling for greater government action and a shift in policy to prioritize the safe return of hostages over territorial concerns.
Funerals for the deceased hostages have further fueled public anger, with many calling for a reevaluation of the government’s approach and more decisive action to end the conflict and secure the remaining hostages.
