**Growing Opposition to Israel’s Gaza War**
The conflict in Gaza continues, but a growing number of Israelis are speaking out against the war. Thousands of Israeli reservists from all branches of the military have signed letters demanding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to stop the fighting and focus on bringing back the remaining hostages held by Hamas.
Just 18 months ago, few Israelis questioned the logic of the war – to defeat Hamas and return the hostages. But hopes were raised when a ceasefire was established in January and over 30 hostages were returned. However, the conflict resumed in mid-March, and with it, growing opposition to the war.
**Reservists Speak Out**
Among those speaking out are long-time critics of Netanyahu, including former Mossad head Danny Yatom. “We understand that the main concern of Netanyahu is his personal interests,” he said. “In the list of priorities, his interests come first, not the hostages.” Many of those who signed the recent letters are concerned about Israel’s direction and fear for its future.
The first open letter was published in early April and was signed by 1,000 Air Force reservists and retirees. The signatories called on Israelis to take action before the estimated 24 remaining hostages run out of time. “Every day they live is a risk to their lives,” they wrote. “Every moment of hesitation is a crying pity.”
Since then, similar letters have appeared from nearly every branch of the armed forces, including elite fighting units and intelligence units. More than 12,000 signatures in total have been gathered.
**Military Recruitment Crisis**
The continued war has also led to a crisis in military recruitment. Reports suggest that the number of reserve members has dropped as low as 50-60%, a situation not seen since Israel’s first Lebanon War in 1982.
Yoav, a reservist infantryman who served in Gaza last summer, expressed his concerns about the war and its impact on Israel. “We are strong and can beat Hamas,” he said. “But it’s not just about beating Hamas; it’s about losing our country.”
**Criticism of Government**
Retired general Amiram Levin has written that it is time to start thinking about soldiers disobeying orders, starting with senior officers. He warned that the risk of being drawn into war crimes and suffering a deadly blow to the Israel Defense Forces and social ethos makes it impossible to stand by idly.
Some have argued that lines have been crossed, including those who have brought their cases before the International Criminal Court or International Court of Justice.
**Netanyahu’s Response**
Prime Minister Netanyahu has dismissed the protesters’ concerns as “propaganda lying” spread by a small handful of fringe elements. However, polls show that the protest letters are a reflection of a growing public conviction – that the release of the remaining hostages must come first.
In Tel Aviv, anti-war protests have been ongoing for more than a year. Images of hostages and Palestinian children who were killed in the war have been displayed, causing controversy among authorities.
The prime minister continues to talk about his determination to defeat Hamas, insisting that military pressure is the only way to bring home the remaining hostages. However, as opposition grows, it remains to be seen whether Netanyahu’s government will listen to the concerns of its citizens.
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