![People, holding banners, stage a protest to demand Israeli hostage to be release as Israeli government has gathered to discuss a possible ground operation in Gaza at Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem on August 7, 2025. [Saeed Qaq - Anadolu Agency]](https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/AA-20250807-38770149-38770147-PROTESTERS_CALL_FOR_RELEASE_OF_ISRAELI_HOSTAGES_AMID_GAZA_OPERATION_TALKS_IN_JERUSALEM.jpg)
Families of Israeli captives and army soldiers called on Sunday for a nationwide strike on Aug. 17 to pressure Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure a prisoner swap deal with Palestinian factions, Anadolu reports. Addressing a press conference in Tel Aviv, the families said the strike would “paralyse vital facilities and major companies across the country,” urging all sectors of society to join. They condemned the Israeli government for “ignoring the suffering of captives and their relatives.” Opposition leader Yair Lapid expressed support for the planned strike in a statement on X, calling the economic shutdown “justified and necessary,” and promising ongoing backing for families’ actions. The announcement follows mounting criticism from opposition parties and families over Netanyahu’s plans […]
