UPDATE: Families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza are urgently calling for a nationwide work stoppage on Sunday to demand a cease-fire agreement with Hamas to secure the release of their loved ones. This appeal comes as the Israeli government intensifies its nearly two-year military campaign in the enclave, raising fears for the safety of captives.
The Hostage Families Forum, an advocacy group, declared, “Silence enables their sacrifice on the altar of an endless war without purpose or goal.” They are urging citizens across the nation to participate in this strike, which aims to shut down businesses and schools. The call follows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s announcement of plans to expand military operations in Gaza, including a potential takeover of Gaza City, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians are currently sheltering.
Last week, the Israeli security cabinet discussed strategies to “take over” Gaza City, further escalating tensions. As the families of the hostages rally support, uncertainty looms over how many will actually participate, especially since the nation’s largest labor association, the Histadrut, has already opted out of the strike.
Histadrut leader Arnon Bar-David stated, “Unfortunately, and although my heart is bursting with anger, it has no practical outcome,” referencing a previous strike that failed to influence government policy.
Since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, 2023, Hamas and its allies have abducted approximately 250 individuals, holding them as bargaining chips in ongoing negotiations. While more than 100 hostages have been released during temporary cease-fires, over 60,000 lives have been lost in the ensuing Israeli military campaign, according to Gaza health officials. This staggering figure includes thousands of children, and the death toll does not differentiate between civilians and combatants.
Currently, about 20 living hostages and the bodies of around 30 others are believed to still be in Gaza. Among them is Evyatar David, whose family recently saw him in a distressing Hamas video, heightening fears for the remaining captives’ safety.
The situation is evolving rapidly, with military preparations underway to mobilize reserve soldiers for a potential operation in Gaza City. This could take weeks, leaving a narrow window for diplomatic efforts to secure a truce. However, families of the hostages are apprehensive that an Israeli military assault could endanger their loved ones’ lives.
Anat Angrest, whose son Matan Angrest was captured during the October 7 attacks, voiced her despair at a press conference. “The government has decided to send to conquer Gaza, to send soldiers near where Matan is being held,” she said. “They’re fighting to bring him back — but in practice, they’re putting both his life in danger and their own.”
As the situation develops, the families’ demands for immediate action and a cease-fire grow louder. The nation watches closely, caught between a desire for resolution and the harsh realities of conflict. With emotions running high and lives hanging in the balance, the urgency of their plea resonates across Israel and beyond.
