In Israel massive protests have erupted nationwide since yesterday, with demonstrators urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate a ceasefire with Hamas to facilitate the return of hostages held in Gaza. The protests followed the announcement by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) regarding the recovery of six hostages’ bodies. The strike, organized by Histadrut, Israel’s largest labor union, marks the first such action since the Gaza conflict began in October last year.

Local media reports said that cinemas, theaters, museums, universities, restaurants, cafes, and pubs across the country were closed in solidarity with the strike, and has led to the closure of the country’s main airport.