Israeli protesters are demanding the safe return of hostages held by Hamas after six captives were found dead in Gaza. The largest trade union in Israel launched a general strike, disrupting transport and medical services, as shops and businesses closed in solidarity. The recovery of the bodies triggered grief and anger, with hundreds of thousands protesting in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
The demonstrators urge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate a ceasefire with Hamas to bring the remaining hostages home. Critics accuse Netanyahu of prioritizing political gain over the safe return of the hostages, risking a wider regional conflict as hostilities spread to the West Bank and Lebanon.