Hong Kong brought to a standstill as anti-extradition protests intensify

The protests began in June against a proposed bill allowing extraditions to mainland China, but have since morphed into a broader challenge to China

Hong Kong protesters looked to shut down the city with a general strike on Monday after a ninth straight weekend of unrest triggered by Beijing’s tightening grip over the financial hub.

Demonstrators plan to take leave or call in sick from work and disrupt the morning commute, moves that could snarl traffic and disrupt airport operations. Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. said it canceled more than 140 flights coming to and from the city, while Hong Kong Airlines Ltd. scrapped 30 flights.

The protests began in June against a proposed bill allowing extraditions to mainland China, but have since morphed into a broader