The Times of Israel Daily Briefing Day 681 - Can mass strike for hostages restart release talks?
Aug 17, 2025
Tal Schneider, a political reporter for The Times of Israel, provides insights into the escalating situation in Israel. Families of hostages are leading a nationwide strike, pushing for negotiations rather than warfare. Schneider shares the emotional toll on these families and discusses a potential shift in Hamas' demands for hostages. International reactions are heating up, with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen calling the Israeli leadership a 'problem,' as pressure mounts for a diplomatic resolution amid the ongoing conflict.
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Public Backs Hostage-For-Peace Demand
- Public opinion strongly favors ending the war in exchange for all hostages, with polls showing 70–75% support.
- Tal Schneider says the current government largely ignores public discourse, fueling widespread frustration.
Hostages Square: Strollers And Yellow Ribbons
- Ariella Carmel describes Hostages Square lined with empty strollers and families wearing yellow ribbons to symbolize the 50 remaining hostages.
- She reports emotional speeches and chants as relatives and crowds demand the immediate return of the hostages.
Government Distancing And Grassroots Strike
- The government appears detached from the protest and some ministers claim the strike harms Israel's negotiating position.
- Tal Schneider notes this protest is grassroots and the main labor union officially withheld a strike to avoid political action.