Massive Israeli protests demand Gaza ceasefire and hostage release

Thousands of Israelis participated in a nationwide strike demanding a ceasefire with Hamas and the release of hostages from Gaza, amid ongoing conflict and heavy casualties in Gaza. Police used water cannons and made arrests during protests, which called for peace and an end to military actions, while the Israeli government criticized the demonstrations. The conflict continues to cause significant civilian suffering, with high death tolls and humanitarian crises in Gaza, and Israel preparing for potential military operations.