Much of Israel’s economy ground to a halt overnight, during the country’s first major workers’ strike since the start of the war.
The strike shut down Israel’s international airport and disrupted banks, manufacturing facilities, healthcare facilities and businesses.
Israelis have been venting their fury and devastation after another six Israeli captives of Hamas were retrieved dead in Gaza.
Dr Eyal Mayroz, a Peace and Conflict Studies Senior Lecturer, gives insight into what impact the strikes might have on The Briefing:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political career has survived major demonstrations before.
Experts speculate whether this strike could finally force him to agree to a hostage swap deal and a ceasefire.
Sydney University Senior Lecturer Dr Eyal Mayroz said, “The focus is on Netanyahu because they believe that if there is to be any kind of change, it has to come from Israel rather than from Hamas.”
The Briefing host Bension Siebert asked: “Do you think that the strike is the thing that could push things over the line at the moment?”
Dr Mayroz said it is hard to know. He said that while the unions are powerful, they’re not as powerful as they used to be.
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“How far will the union go in terms of beyond that one-day strike? I don’t see that as being maintained over a long period of time.”
Mayroz said he’s paying close attention to the relationship between Yoav Gallant, the defence minister and the rest of the government. Gallant was the only one to vote in favour of the concession needed to advance the ceasefire.
“[Gallant] has a lot of power. If he resigns or if he is being let go that might have also an impact.”
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