SHOTLIST:

- TEL AVIV, ISRAEL (AUGUST 17, 2025) (ANADOLU - ACCESS ALL)

1. PROTESTERS GATHERING IN TEL AVIV

2. DEMONSTRATORS MARCHING, CARRYING BANNERS

3. PROTESTERS CHANTING SLOGANS TEL AVIV, ISRAEL - AUGUST 17: Thousands of Israelis staged a nationwide strike on Sunday, blocking highways in multiple cities to pressure the Benjamin Netanyahu government to reach a prisoner swap deal with Palestinians and end its ongoing war in Gaza.

The general strike was called by families of Israeli captives held in Gaza, who fear that last week’s decision by the Israeli government to fully occupy Gaza would endanger the lives of their beloved ones.

Demonstrators attempted to block streets, tunnels, and bridges in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, prompting authorities to use water cannons to disperse them. Protesters also set tires on fire, leading to widespread traffic disruption.

Hundreds of private companies, municipalities, and organizations joined the action, while public broadcaster KAN said thousands of demonstrators shut down major roads, leading to traffic gridlock and suspension of train services.

Restaurants and cafes also closed, while Haaretz reported that dozens of Israeli artists, celebrities, and athletes voiced support and joined the strike.

Major unions, including lawyers, doctors, and the business forum, as well as the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, also confirmed their participation in the strike.

Israeli police said 38 demonstrators were arrested across the country during the strike, according to the daily Yedioth Ahronoth.