Families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza are urging a nationwide general strike next Sunday to protest the government’s decision to expand military operations and seize Gaza City.
“We are shutting down the country to save the soldiers and the hostages,” said relatives gathered in Tel Aviv, joined by the October 7 Council, which represents families of soldiers killed at the start of the war.
Grassroots Push Gains Momentum
Organizers say the strike will begin as a citizen-led movement, driven by private companies and individuals taking the day off to disrupt the economy.
- The October 7 Council claims hundreds of companies and thousands of citizens have already pledged participation.
- Israel’s largest trade union, Histadrut, has yet to commit but will meet with the families on Monday.
Anat Angrest, whose son Matan is among the hostages, appealed directly to industry leaders:
“Your silence is killing our children. You have the power to act.”
Union and Political Support in Question
The Histadrut staged a general strike in 2024 after six hostages were killed by Hamas, disrupting transport, banking, and healthcare before the government intervened with a labor court injunction.
- This time, the union has stayed silent so far.
- Opposition leaders Yair Lapid and Yair Golan have endorsed the strike, urging Israelis to “resist and disrupt” in solidarity.
Criticism of War Expansion
The strike call comes after the Israeli security cabinet approved a controversial plan to take over Gaza City, despite warnings it could endanger the remaining 50 hostages — about 20 believed to be alive.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the move, saying:
“This is the best way to end the war and the best way to end it speedily.”
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