Israel’s Political Turmoil. Nationwide Strikes and Demonstrations: Calls for Hostage Deal and Netanyahu’s Accountability.

The article from Haaretz, discussing protests in Israel against the government and in support of hostage release deals. Here’s a detailed overview of similar protests covered in related articles:

Key Details About the Protests in Israel

1. Mass Demonstrations Across Israel

- Thousands of Israelis have been protesting in cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Be'er Sheva, demanding a deal to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza .

- The protests intensified after Hamas released a video showing hostage Liri Elbag, further fueling public outrage .

2. Trigger for Recent Protests

- The discovery of six dead hostages in Gaza (identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, and others) sparked nationwide grief and anger, leading to some of the largest demonstrations since the war began .

- Protesters accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of prioritizing political survival over securing a hostage deal .

3. Escalation Tactics

- Protesters blocked major highways, including Tel Aviv’s Ayalon Highway, and clashed with police .

- A nationwide general strike was called by the Histadrut labor union, disrupting flights, hospitals, and public services .

4. Political Backlash

- Netanyahu blamed Hamas for the lack of a deal, while his far-right coalition partners (Smotrich and Ben-Gvir) opposed concessions, threatening to collapse the government if a ceasefire was agreed upon .

- U.S. President Joe Biden criticized Netanyahu, stating he was not doing enough to secure a deal .

5. Families’ Demands

- Relatives of hostages publicly called for Netanyahu’s removal, chanting slogans like "Alive, alive, we want them alive" and holding signs accusing the government of failure .

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