Israel Strikes Amid Hostage Crisis Negotiations

A general strike initiated by Israel's largest labor union, Histadrut, has significantly disrupted businesses, schools, and transport in response to the recent deaths of six hostages recovered from Gaza, sparking widespread protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the hostage situation. Over half a million people protested in major cities, demanding a ceasefire and the return of the remaining 97 hostages held by Hamas. The strike, which affected operations at Ben Gurion Airport and public transportation, aimed to pressure the government into negotiating a deal that would secure the hostages' release. Despite attempts by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to halt the strike through the courts, the movement garnered support from various sectors, including manufacturing and high-tech industries. Tensions remain high as many Israelis blame Netanyahu for the hostages' deaths, while others support his strategy of maintaining military pressure on Hamas. The Israeli government has filed a court petition to declare the strike political and not related to labor disputes, further deepening the divisions in the country.