VIDEO: Mass strike, protests erupt in Tel Aviv over captives in Gaza

Tel Aviv and cities across 'Israel' were paralyzed on Sunday as thousands joined a mass strike and protests demanding the release of captives held in Gaza.

The escalation, described by Hebrew media as a “People’s Strike,” disrupted train services, closed community centers and universities, and caused major traffic jams. Businesses across multiple sectors also shut down in solidarity.

Led by families of captives and relatives of those killed in the war, the protests form part of a broader “week of demonstrations” aimed at pressuring the government to secure an immediate deal, even if it requires halting the fighting and ending the war on Gaza.

According to Yedioth Ahronoth, the protests began symbolically at 6:29 AM, the precise moment the October 7, 2023 events began, highlighting the lasting impact of that day.

Large numbers of settlers took part in the demonstrations, which are expected to intensify in the evening outside government buildings and key occupation offices in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

In addition to strikes and roadblocks nationwide, families of captives set up a protest encampment on the Gaza border.

The campaign centers around the demand for the release of 50 captives who have been held in Gaza for 681 days, underscoring growing public anger and calls for a comprehensive government plan to bring them home.