Israeli Reservists Break Ranks Over Gaza War as Hostage Crisis Deepens
Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza is facing increasing internal opposition — not just from civilians, but from its own reservists. As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains committed to crushing Hamas, over 12,000 reservists from all military branches have signed open letters urging the government to prioritize the rescue of the 59 hostages still believed to be alive.
Just a year ago, support for the war was nearly unanimous. The October 2023 Hamas attack shocked the nation into action. But hopes for a quick resolution faded after Israel resumed military operations in March following a short-lived ceasefire.
Among the signatories is Danny Yatom, a former head of the Mossad. He insists his stance is not political, but patriotic.
“This isn’t about politics,” said Yatom. “This is about saving our country from losing its moral compass.”
The first public letter, signed by 1,000 air force veterans, stated that continuing the war would only endanger the hostages' lives. More letters have since followed from elite combat and intelligence units, including top commanders.
This resistance is more than symbolic. Attendance in the army reserves has dropped drastically — from near-total turnout to just 50–60%, according to reports. For an army that relies heavily on reservists, this marks the biggest internal crisis since the 1982 Lebanon War.
“Yoav,” an infantry reservist who served in Gaza last year but declined to be identified, said he no longer believes in the mission.
“We’re not just risking lives to defeat Hamas — we’re risking the soul of our nation.”
Public opinion appears to be shifting too. Recent polls show growing support for a ceasefire and a hostage deal. Yet Netanyahu continues to portray protesters as “fringe elements” disconnected from reality.
The streets of Tel Aviv tell a different story. Protesters carry posters of slain Palestinian children and missing Israeli hostages. A recent police attempt to ban such images was quickly reversed following public backlash.
The military’s claim of being the “most moral army in the world” is now under intense scrutiny, as human rights groups and international courts investigate Israel’s conduct.
Retired General Amiram Levin went as far as to suggest disobedience among senior officers if actions cross into war crimes.
As the war drags on and the hostages remain underground, many Israelis are asking: At what cost?
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