Hundreds of thousands of Israelis joined nationwide protests and a strike on Sunday, with organizers estimating over one million participants throughout the day.

The demonstrations, centered at Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, demanded the government secure the release of 50 hostages still held in Gaza.

The protests coincided with the release of a video of captive Matan Zangauker, intensifying public pressure on leaders.

Families of hostages, supported by bereaved war families, accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict and called for an immediate ceasefire deal to bring the hostages home.

While President Isaac Herzog voiced support, government officials including Netanyahu and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir condemned the strike.

Police arrested dozens of protesters, while many businesses and institutions joined in solidarity, CNN has reported.

The Hostages Forum pledged to continue its campaign with a new protest encampment on the Gaza border.