Hostage families kick off nationwide strike over government’s war plan

A nationwide general strike got underway at 6:29 a.m., as families of the hostages protested the government’s decision to expand the war in Gaza with a campaign to conquer Gaza City, rather than sign a deal to return their loved ones.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said last night that it was preparing for nearly one million people to pass through Hostages Square in Tel Aviv throughout the day, and for tens of thousands to join activities at hundreds of other sites across Israel.

To kick off the day of protests, activists have stationed themselves at intersections up and down the country and will be handing out yellow ribbons to passersby.

The main events of the day will get underway at 7 a.m., when the October Council will deliver a statement to the press from Sarona Market in Tel Aviv, across the street from the Kirya military headquarters.

Then, at 9 a.m., a special photography exhibition will open at Hostages Square for the public to view throughout the day, until 6 p.m.

The main stage at Hostages Square will also feature speeches from relatives of the hostages at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m.

The day’s events will culminate with a mass rally outside the Kirya military headquarters at 8 p.m.