Protesters in Israel escalated their ongoing campaign on Sunday to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.

Israeli police blasted crowds with water cannons and made dozens of arrests on Sunday as thousands of protesters demanding a deal to free hostages in Gaza aimed to shut down the country with a one-day strike that blocked roads and closed businesses.

Protesters in Israel demand a deal to free hostages in Gaza, staging a nationwide strike. The demonstration highlights growing frustration amid fears of a new military offensive. Tensions rise as Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu faces internal pressures,