Thousands of Israelis took part in a nationwide strike on Sunday, demanding an immediate ceasefire with Hamas and the release of hostages still held in Gaza.

The so-called “day of stoppage” saw roads blocked, businesses closed and protesters gather outside politicians’ homes and military facilities.

Police responded with water cannons and made dozens of arrests, including when protesters tried to access the central Ayalon highway in Tel Aviv. Equipment used by demonstrators was also confiscated.

The strike was organized by groups representing families of hostages and those who have lost relatives, weeks after videos of hostages surfaced and Israel announced plans for a new military offensive in Gaza’s most populated areas.

Protesters, fearing further fighting could endanger the 50 hostages believed to remain in Gaza, chanted: “We don’t win a war over the bodies of hostages.” Yellow ribbons were handed out at highway intersections, symbolizing solidarity with the hostages.

Some restaurants and theaters closed in solidarity, even though Israel’s largest labor union, Histadrut, did not formally join the strike. It marked one of the strongest demonstrations since six hostages were found dead in Gaza last September.

Former hostage Arbel Yehoud told demonstrators in Tel Aviv that military pressure alone would not bring hostages back.

“The only way to bring them back is through a deal, all at once, without games,” he said.

Anat Angrest, whose son remains a hostage, added: “Today, we stop everything to remember the supreme value of life and bring back our loved ones.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, warned that such protests benefit Hamas.

Far-right cabinet members, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, criticized the stoppage, saying it strengthens Hamas and delays the hostages’ return. Netanyahu emphasized that ending the war without removing Hamas would risk repeating the horrors of October 7.

Meanwhile, humanitarian conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate. Hospitals report growing malnutrition and starvation, with over 250 deaths linked to food shortages, including more than 100 children.

Israeli airstrikes and blockades have restricted the flow of aid, though some deliveries of tents and shelter equipment have resumed. Israel’s military is also preparing for possible incursions into Gaza City and other populated areas.

The nationwide strike underscores a deep divide between public calls for negotiation and the government’s insistence on military action, while the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, drawing global concern.