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.

JERUSALEM -- Protestors in Israel demanding their government make a deal to secure the release of hostages held by militants in Gaza escalated their campaign on Sunday, staging a strike that snarled traffic and shuttered businesses.

Protesters demanding Israeli’s government agree a deal to free hostages held by Hamas in Gaza launched a national “day of stoppage”, staging demonstrations and blocking roads across the country.

Guatemalan authorities on Saturday freed nine prison guards who had been held hostage since Thursday by rioting inmates in Guatemala City, an official said.

The Prime Minister’s Office clarifies that Israel will agree to a deal on condition that all the hostages are released in one go," the statement read. Amid renewed reports of Hamas flexibility on a phased ceasefire-hostage agreement,

Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered on Sunday evening in Tel Aviv to call for an end to the war in Gaza and the release of hostages, one of the

Thousands of Israelis have joined a nationwide strike demanding a ceasefire deal to free the hostages and protesting against the government’s plan to occupy Gaza.

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,

Guatemalan authorities have freed nine prison guards held hostage since Thursday by rioting inmates in Guatemala City

Three men were sentenced this week in San Diego federal court for their roles in abducting a San Diego teenager who was tortured and killed in Tijuana, while a fourth defendant in the case continues to seek a new trial on the grounds that an unsolicited text message tainted the jury that convicted him of shooting and killing the victim.

FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss told The New York Times on Saturday that President Trump demonstrates empathy, citing his Iran policy decisions and immigration approach.