Military reservists across Israel are speaking out against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government’s war in Gaza, adding to growing domestic and international pressure for them to adjust its strategy.
Over the last several weeks, hundreds of reservists from various branches of Israel Defense Forces (IDF), such as elite intelligence and combat units, have signed open letters and participated in public demonstrations voicing their discontent with Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza. Many expressed moral, ethical, and strategic considerations related to its effects on civilian populations while failing to meet long-term security goals for Israel.
“We served our nation honorably, but we cannot stand idly by as innocent civilians are caught up in the crossfire,” stated Lt. (res.) Eitan Levy, an former intelligence officer. This war is undermining values we hold dear while isolating Israel internationally.
Reservists’ comments come amid mounting civilian demonstrations in Tel Aviv, Haifa and Jerusalem where thousands have regularly rallied calling for an immediate ceasefire and new elections. Critics allege that Netanyahu’s administration prolongs this war simply to maintain political power while increasing casualties and losing international support.
Since Israel launched military operations against Hamas, the humanitarian situation in Gaza has significantly deteriorated. Aid organizations report that hundreds of civilians have been killed, leaving others homeless due to Israel’s military operations against Hamas. International pressure has mounted, with UN, EU and several U.S. lawmakers all calling upon it to demonstrate restraint and seek diplomatic resolution instead of fighting further against Hamas.
Within Israel, discontent has also spread along political lines. Former high-ranking military officers and members of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s coalition are raising doubts about the effectiveness and direction of Israel’s campaign, some fearing that its conflict with Iran threatens long-term security and diplomatic relationships.
“With no clear exit strategy in sight, each day that passes we lose more morally, economically and geopolitically,” stated an anonymous reservist in an online post that was widely shared on social media.
Though calls for a ceasefire have increased, Netanyahu remains defiant. In recent public statements he reiterated Israel’s right to self-defense and pledged that its military operations against Hamas will continue until dismantlement occurs.
Analysts warn of a growing rift between Israel’s government and sections of its military as this conflict continues to drag on. With more reservists leaving and rising public unease against Netanyahu’s leadership, pressure on his leadership could intensify to an unprecedented degree — one which could affect future Israeli politics and regional stability alike.