Israel hit by nationwide general strike over Gaza conflict and hostage deaths

Israeli unions, including Ben Gurion airport, have gone on strike to pressure the government over the Gaza conflict and demand the release of hostages held by Hamas. Tens of thousands of people have protested, and the Histadrut union chair has joined the call for the release of the hostages.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has accused the government of delays in negotiating a deal for their release. In Jerusalem, protesters are demanding a ceasefire to free the captives, with over 100 people detained and at least one-third estimated to be dead.

The polio vaccine campaign in Gaza is ongoing, aiming to reach 600,000 children, but the UN Palestinian refugee agency warns that what they need most is an immediate ceasefire. The strike has caused closures of government and municipal offices, schools, and many private businesses, as well as the shutdown of Ben Gurion airport for an unknown period.

The US is considering presenting a final take-it-or-leave-it deal to Israel and Hamas, and if not accepted, they may walk away from leading the ceasefire negotiations.