Recent clashes between Israelis and police erupted in major cities throughout Israel following the recovery of six captives in Gaza on Saturday night. Demanding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secure a deal for the remaining captives, protests grew, prompting a complete strike announced by trade union leader Arnon Bar-David starting Monday morning.
The strike will freeze the entire Israeli economy and suspend flights at Ben Gurion airport. Bar-David emphasized the need for urgency in securing a deal, accusing political considerations of hindering progress.
In response to the recovery of captives’ bodies, large demonstrations swept through Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities, with crowds demanding a stronger effort to bring back the remaining 101 captives. Hamas officials attributed the deaths to Israel’s refusal to sign a ceasefire agreement.
Israeli Police Clash with Protestors
Scenes of Israeli police clashing with demonstrators on Tel Aviv’s Ayalon Highway emerged, with reports of stun grenades being used. Member of parliament Naama Lazimi recounted a close encounter with a grenade, highlighting the escalating tensions.
As the situation intensifies, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has urged legal action to prevent the planned strike, highlighting the contentious issue’s political nature.
מפגינים בתל אביב:
“ביבי רוצח את החטופים”.
עכשיו באיילון.
Former President Trump chimed in on social media, criticizing Vice President Harris and blaming the crisis on her incompetence. Hamas leader Khalil al-Hiya stressed the importance of Israeli withdrawal from certain territories for a potential agreement.