According to a report by The Times of Israel on August 17, 2025, Opposition Leader Yair Lapid visited Hostages Square in Tel Aviv to stand in solidarity with the families of hostages held in Gaza, as a nationwide strike unfolded to demand their release and an end to the ongoing war.
In a powerful video message delivered from the plaza, which was filling with demonstrators, Lapid declared that the country was shutting down to send a clear message.
In his words, “We are shutting down the country today.”
He emphasized that the hostages are not mere pawns to be sacrificed for the war effort but are citizens the government is obligated to bring back to their families.
Lapid vowed that the movement would remain relentless, stating that no obstacles, fatigue, or exhaustion would deter their fight until the hostages are safely returned, a deal is secured, and the war concludes.
In his words, “They won’t stop us, they won’t tire us, they won’t exhaust us, we’ll continue to fight until the hostages return home, there’s a deal, the war ends.”
He later shared this message on X, amplifying the call for action.
The strike, a bold act of collective action, aimed to disrupt normal operations and highlight the plight of the hostages, urging immediate negotiations to secure their freedom.
In a parallel show of support, Blue and White-National Unity chairman Benny Gantz used X to express solidarity with the hostage families.
He criticized the government’s response, particularly after several cabinet ministers condemned the strike.
Gantz asserted that attacking the families, whose loved ones have been held captive by Hamas for nearly two years, only serves to weaken and divide the nation.
He stressed that the government bears responsibility for the prolonged captivity and should focus on uniting the country rather than criticizing those in pain.
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