Israeli Opposition Calls for Strike to Pressure Government on Gaza Hostage Crisis

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has called for a national strike to force the government to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. Lapid's appeal targets the main labor union, businesses, and municipalities, urging them to join protests in Tel Aviv. The call follows the recovery of six hostages' bodies.

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has urged a strike to shut down the economy, aimed at pressuring the government to reach a deal for the release of hostages remaining in the Gaza Strip.

Lapid, a former prime minister, appealed to every Israeli moved by the situation to join a key protest in Tel Aviv. He also called on the main labor union, businesses, and municipalities to strike. His call came after six more hostages' bodies were recovered from Gaza.

The Histadrut labor federation, representing numerous public sector workers, is weighing a strike, while the Manufacturers' Association backed the move, criticizing the government's inability to bring hostages back alive. Ron Tomer, head of the association, emphasized the urgent need for government action.

(With inputs from agencies.)