Tens of thousands of Israelis flooded the streets of Tel Aviv from 6:30 AM local time (5:30 AM CET) for a nationwide general strike called by the Hostage Families Forum. The protests demand an end to the Gaza war and a deal to secure the release of hostages still held by Hamas. Organizers anticipate one million participants at Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square throughout the day, with hundreds of events nationwide involving tens of thousands. Activists launched the protest day by blocking major intersections, lighting bonfires on roadways, and distributing yellow ribbons.
Israeli police reported at least 32 arrests during operations to clear roads obstructed by protesters, who burned tires in multiple locations. Highway 16, a key route into Jerusalem, was also blocked.
The Hostage and Missing Families Forum issued a sharp rebuke to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government: “For 22 months, the abducted have languished in Gaza before your eyes. Instead of deceiving the public, spreading rumors, and slandering the families, return our loved ones through a deal and end the war. This is the only decision the Israeli people demand, and the only possible decision.” The statement held Netanyahu personally responsible for their return.
Netanyahu countered, asserting that calls to end the war “strengthen Hamas’ position, delay our hostages’ release, ensure the horrors of October 7th repeat, and force us into an endless war.” He emphasized Israel’s conditions for ending the conflict, including long-term security control and Hamas disarmament in Gaza – conditions Hamas rejects.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited Hostage Square, telling families: “The entire nation wants their liberation. To the hostages still in the tunnels: we have not forgotten you and are doing everything to bring you home.” He urged soldiers to rescue them and called for international pressure on Hamas.
Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich condemned the protests, accusing demonstrators of “playing into Hamas’ hands” and “burying the hostages in the tunnels.” He claimed the campaign involved “very few people” and failed to paralyze Israel. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir echoed this, blaming the same protesters for “weakening Israel before October 7th.” Transport Minister Miri Regev (Likud) criticized turning “hostage solidarity into a political campaign” that damages infrastructure.
Protest Schedule:
Events include a press conference by the October 7th Council at Tel Aviv’s Sarona Market facing the Kirya military HQ. A photo exhibition opened at Hostage Square at 9 AM, remaining until 6 PM. Speeches by hostage families will dominate the main stage. The day culminates in a mass rally at Kirya at 8 PM local time (7 PM CET), titled “A Day to Save Lives,” protesting the government’s decision to expand Gaza operations instead of securing the release of the remaining 50 hostages (20 believed alive). Actions are planned in 400 locations nationwide.
Gaza Raids Continue:
Israeli airstrikes intensified on Gaza City. An early morning raid hit Al Ahli Hospital, killing at least 7 people according to Al Jazeera. A separate attack on a tent killed a boy. The Palestinian Civil Defense in Gaza reported at least 18 deaths from Israeli raids today, including 7 killed while seeking humanitarian aid and 7 at the hospital. Medical sources cited by Al Jazeera later raised the death toll to 29. Israel’s offensive expands amid rising starvation deaths (11 in 24 hours per Gaza Health Ministry) and pressure to forcibly displace Palestinians to southern enclaves.