Israeli police have blasted crowds with water cannons and made dozens of arrests as thousands of protesters demand a deal to free hostages in Gaza. One protester displays an image of an emaciated Palestinian child.

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.

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