Israeli protesters demanding a deal to free hostages in Gaza attempted to shut down the country Sunday in one of the largest and fiercest protests in 22 months of war. Frustration is growing in Israel over plans for a new military offensive in some of Gaza's most populated areas.

Clutching pictures of hostages, waving yellow flags, banging on snare drums and shouting chants to bring captive Israelis home, tens of thousands took to Tel Aviv's streets Sunday to call for an end to the war in Gaza.

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