Overview

• Hostage families initiated a general strike on Sunday, drawing over 200,000 demonstrators in Tel Aviv and widespread participation across the country.
• Protesters blocked key highways including the Tel Aviv–Jerusalem route, set tires on fire and grounded public transit to demand an immediate ceasefire and the return of captives.
• Authorities arrested more than 30 participants and used water cannon in Jerusalem to clear demonstrations.
• Israel’s security cabinet approved an expanded IDF offensive targeting Gaza City and Al-Mawasi, with plans underway to evacuate civilians from combat zones.
• Negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage exchange remain stalled, and international agencies warn that a broader military push will exacerbate Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.