🇮🇱 Israelis Stage Nationwide Strike Over Hostages as Gaza War Spreads

Thousands across Israel halted daily life in protest amid fears that continued fighting in Gaza could cost the lives of remaining hostages.

Zig Diaries | Diplomacy
Date: Monday, 18 August 2025
Time: 10:30 WAT
Location: 📍 Tel Aviv, Israel

The “day of stoppage” is among the largest protests since last September’s confirmation of six hostage deaths, highlighting deep frustration with the war and its human toll.

Thousands of Israelis, many of them members of hostage families and bereaved relatives, took to the streets demanding an end to military operations in Gaza and the immediate release of captives. Protesters targeted politicians’ homes, military headquarters, and key highways, causing widespread disruption as police deployed water cannons and arrested at least 38 demonstrators.

The organizers warned that new offensives would endanger the 50 remaining hostages—only 20 of whom are thought to still be alive. This action follows Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack that killed around 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage. Since then, Israel’s offensive has resulted in over 62,000 Palestinian deaths and hundreds of Israeli soldier casualties.

Additional Background

The Gaza conflict has now entered its 23rd month, turning into one of the deadliest in the region’s recent memory. According to Gaza's Health Ministry, more than 62,000 Palestinians have died, with 156,000 wounded. 

Independent studies estimate that actual fatalities may be even higher-up to 75,200 by early 2025-ighlighting the severity of the crisis. 

On the Israeli side, official figures place IDF deaths around 891, with nearly 900 soldiers killed—the highest toll in recent decades.

🏷️ Tags: Israel, HostageFamilies, GazaWar, Protests, Diplomacy
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