Israeli opposition politician advocates for nationwide work stoppage on Sunday
In the heart of August 2025, Israel witnessed a significant nationwide event as families of hostages and bereaved families, backed by a broad section of civil society, organised a "day of stoppage" in a bid to pressure the government for a ceasefire and the safe release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
The general strike, scheduled for the first workday of the week, on Sunday, was a powerful expression of civil disobedience, involving massive protests across the country. Roads were blocked, businesses closed, and gatherings took place outside politicians' homes and military sites. Police used water cannons and made arrests to disperse the crowds, but the protesters' determination remained undeterred.
The organisers of this historic event are the October Council, a group representing families affected by Hamas attacks. The strike was initially called for by 20 family members of Israeli hostages last Sunday, and on Monday, the Forum of Hostage Families, the largest association, also supported the call. The strike has gained widespread support, reflecting deep ideological divisions within Israel regarding the war and its leadership.
The strike, covered extensively by Israeli and international media, including CBS News and ILTV Israel News, highlighted the solidarity expressed with hostage families. Jair Lapid, a leading opposition politician in Israel, wrote an appeal for the strike on Tuesday on the online service X, urging those with differing views on the war, reserves, and conscientious objector law to join the strike. So far, Histadrut has refrained from joining the strike but has expressed support for "solidarity expressions from workers."
The war in the Gaza Strip was triggered by Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Almost two years later, the Islamists still hold 49 hostages in their power. Negotiations on a ceasefire and the release of hostages have failed in recent months, causing immense concern among the families of the 22 hostages still alive, according to the Israeli military. The October Council is protesting the continuation of the war and the government's plan to militarily take over Gaza City, expressing concern for the safety of the remaining hostages and potential IDF casualties.
In a surprising turn of events, German politician Wegner has now clearly opposed the Gaza policy of the Chancellor, aligning with the sentiments of many in Israel. However, the Israeli Security Cabinet has decided to expand the military operation in the Gaza Strip, a decision that has fueled the protests and the call for a ceasefire even further.
The August 17 general strike is a significant event, not only as a mass civil action but also as a reflection of the struggle over the future direction of Israel. It highlights tensions between right-wing/religious Zionism and anti-/post-Zionist views, with many calling for a different approach that could restore a sense of national unity and adherence to Israel’s foundational principles.
[1] CBS News, "Israeli families launch nationwide strike to pressure government for hostage release," August 17, 2025. [2] ILTV Israel News, "Thousands protest in Israel demanding ceasefire and hostage release," August 17, 2025. [3] The Jerusalem Post, "The ideological divide: Israel's August 17 general strike," August 18, 2025.
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