Life in Israel Comes to a Halt Today as General Strike Begins

Kokcha News Agency – A general strike initiated by the families of hostages has brought life in Israel to a standstill today, with the first protest taking place in Tel Aviv. The strike and rallies are aimed at opposing Israel’s decision to expand the war and seize control of Gaza City, a move that military officials warn could endanger the lives of hostages.

According to Israeli authorities, there are currently 50 hostages in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive. The October 7 Council and other groups representing the families of hostages and soldiers killed since the start of the war have declared that they will “shut down the country to save the soldiers and hostages.”

While many institutions have announced their participation in the strike, Israel’s largest labor federation, Histadrut, initially stated it would not join. However, in a statement last night, they said, “The collective cry for the return of our brothers is part of the healing that Israeli society needs; it is an act of human solidarity beyond any political debate.”

Additionally, leading educational institutions, including the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv University, have announced their support for the strike.