A nationwide strike began across Israel on Sunday morning as families of hostages protested the government&rsquo;s plan to expand the Gaza war instead of securing a deal for their loved ones&rsquo; release.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum announced that nearly one million people were expected to pass through Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, with tens of thousands joining events at protest sites nationwide.
To mark the start of the day, activists handed out yellow ribbons at intersections across the country, symbolising solidarity with the hostages.
The day&rsquo;s events are centred in Tel Aviv. At 7 a.m., the October Council issued a press statement from Sarona Market, across from the Kirya military headquarters. A special photography exhibition opened at 9 a.m. in Hostages Square, running until 6 p.m., while speeches by relatives of hostages were scheduled throughout the day at two-hour intervals.
The strike and demonstrations will culminate in a mass rally at 8 p.m. outside the Kirya headquarters, amplifying demands for the government to prioritise a hostage deal over a military campaign to seize Gaza City.
The protests highlight mounting public pressure on Israel&rsquo;s leadership as families push for an immediate resolution to the hostage crisis.
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Hostage families lead nationwide strike, mass rallies planned in Tel Aviv against Gaza war

Israel Strike Over Gaza War Plan Begins

Hostage families lead nationwide strike, mass rallies planned in Tel Aviv against Gaza war

August 17, 2025 | 16:04 IST