Large crowds of Israelis took to the streets on Sunday, launching a nationwide grassroots strike and widespread protests to demand the government secure the release of 50 hostages still in Gaza.

Tens of thousands of Israelis rallied in Tel Aviv on Sunday, demanding an end to the Gaza war and the release of hostages, in what is being called the country’s largest protest since October 7.

Israeli police blasted crowds with water cannons and made dozens of arrests on Sunday as protesters demanding a hostage deal escalated their campaign Sunday with a one-day nationwide strike that blocked roads and closed businesses.