Nationwide strike erupts across Israel demanding hostage deal, end to Gaza war

Thousands of protesters took to the streets across Israel on Sunday, launching a nationwide general strike backed by the families of the hostages taken by Hamas — while demanding a cease-fire deal to free the captives and end the war in Gaza.

Demonstrators gathered in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and on major highways around the major Israeli cities, blocking the streets in defiance of the ongoing conflict, which escalated last week after lawmakers approved plans to invade Gaza City.

At least 30 protesters were arrested Sunday after flooding the streets, some burning cars and tires on roadways, sparking clashes with police trying to reopen the thoroughfares, The Times of Israel reported...