Protests break out in Israel demanding end to Gaza war

Thousands of Israelis participated in a nationwide strike on Sunday, August 17, to support families of hostages held in Gaza and call on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach an agreement with Hamas to end the war and release the remaining captives. Palestinian militant group Hamas condemned Israel's plan to relocate residents from Gaza City as a new wave of genocide and displacement. Israeli police clashed with protesters blocking roads in Jerusalem, while demonstrations were staged outside Israel’s military headquarters and at key junctions across several cities. At a news conference in Tel Aviv, families of the hostages said businesses and individuals nationwide were joining the strike. Netanyahu addressed the protests at a cabinet meeting, warning that stopping the war now would allow Hamas to reorganize, rearm, and attack again, and reaffirmed his government’s determination to seize Gaza City—a move widely unpopular among Israelis and hostages’ families who fear an expanded campaign could endanger captives. Israeli officials estimate about 20 hostages remain alive out of the 50 still held by Hamas. Hamas called the relocation plan criminal, claiming it would force the displacement of hundreds of thousands from Gaza City, and accused Israel of covering up a brutal crime. The Israeli military said it would provide tents and other equipment to relocate people to the south of the enclave to ensure their safety.