Israeli police have used water cannons and made dozens of arrests during a nationwide strike demanding a hostage deal. The strike, organized by groups representing families of hostages, blocked roads and closed businesses. Protesters fear further fighting could endanger hostages seized by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Demonstrators gathered across Israel, including outside politicians’ homes and military headquarters. Some businesses closed in solidarity. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies oppose any deal that leaves Hamas in power. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes hit Yemen’s capital, targeting Iran-backed Houthis who have fired missiles at Israel since the war began.
