Israel’s largest trade union, representing hundreds of thousands of workers, has announced a general strike on Monday, demanding the government prioritize a ceasefire and a deal for the release of hostages. Arnon Bar-David, the union’s leader, called on all civilian workers to participate in the strike, stating that Ben Gurion Airport, Israel’s main air transport hub, will be closed starting at 8 a.m.
The strike, initially planned for Monday, is a direct response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the government’s perceived failure to secure the safe return of hostages. Bar-David sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, emphasizing the urgent need for a deal to bring hostages home. In the past week, twelve bodies of hostages have been returned to Israel, while the fate of the remaining 101 remains uncertain. Israeli authorities believe that approximately one-third of those still held captive are no longer alive.
Bar-David expressed concerns about the economic impact of the conflict, stating, “The neglect of the economy must be stopped.” He highlighted the need to restore a sense of normalcy, emphasizing, “Israel must be returned to a reasonable routine… We must reach a deal. A deal is more important than anything else.”
