General strike declared in Israel, major markets and establishments closed across the country

Jerusalem: Hamas militants have killed six Israeli-American hostages in Gaza. Meanwhile, a general strike was declared in Israel on Monday to protest the failure to free the hostages in Gaza. The strike led to shutdowns and other disruptions in almost the entire country, including its main international airport. However, the strike was ignored in some areas, which also reflects deep political differences. Major markets and establishments remained closed due to the strike. 

people on the streets

Thousands of Israelis took to the streets in mourning and outrage after six hostages were found dead late Sunday in Gaza. The victims’ families and many onlookers blamed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying they could have been brought back alive through a deal with Hamas to end the nearly 11-month-old war. But others support Netanyahu’s strategy of maintaining constant military pressure on Hamas, which began with an October 7 attack on Israel. 

The largest trade union had called for a strike

The Histadrut, Israel’s largest trade union, called for a general strike on Monday, the first since the start of the war. It aims to shut down or disrupt key sectors of the economy, including banking, health care, and the country’s main airport.