The recent open letter signed by nearly 1,000 Israeli Air Force veterans, calling for an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, has sparked significant controversy. In response, the military announced it would dismiss any active reservist who participated in signing the document. Despite this, the movement has gained momentum, with thousands of retired and reservist soldiers across various military branches expressing support through similar letters.
This burgeoning campaign criticizes the government for allegedly prolonging the war for political motives and failing to ensure the return of hostages. The situation highlights deepening divisions and disillusionment over Israel’s military actions in Gaza, threatening national unity and raising concerns about the army’s operational capability. The divisions echo the discord from early 2023 regarding government attempts to overhaul Israel’s legal system, which some argue weakened the nation and emboldened Hamas to initiate the conflict later that year.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision on March 18 to resume military operations instead of adhering to a ceasefire that had facilitated some hostage releases has further fueled the controversy. Netanyahu argues that military pressure is crucial to force Hamas to release the remaining captives, although critics, including many families of hostages, fear this approach may endanger their lives. One month following the resumption of hostilities, none of the 59 hostages held by Hamas have been freed, with 24 believed to still be alive.
While the protesters have not explicitly refused to serve, the fact that many signatories identify themselves as former pilots underscores the respect these individuals command in Israeli society. Tens of thousands of academics, doctors, former ambassadors, students, and high-tech workers have also signed letters calling for an end to the conflict.
The war, which began on October 7, 2023, following a surprise cross-border attack by Hamas, has seen Israel launch an offensive with the aims of dismantling Hamas and securing the return of hostages. Gaza has suffered extensive destruction, with over 51,000 Palestinians killed, according to local health officials. Domestically, opposition to the war is growing, with a large proportion of Israelis prioritizing the return of hostages over other objectives.
Netanyahu’s critics accuse him of resuming the conflict to appease hardline coalition partners who threaten to destabilize the government if fighting ends. The military’s swift action to dismiss reservists who signed the protest letters has surprised many, given the traditionally unifying role the army plays in Israeli society. The military is now grappling with challenges in mobilizing reservists as increasing numbers cite exhaustion, family obligations, and financial strains.
Eran Duvdevani, organizer of a letter endorsed by 2,500 former paratroopers, pointed out the dilemma faced by the military in handling the growing protest movement. Although only a small fraction of signatories are currently serving, the prolonged conflict has strained the military’s resources, making it difficult to dismiss potential reservists.
The protest letters underscore widespread divisions within Israeli society regarding the war’s objectives and sustainability, as hostages remain captive and casualties rise. Despite initial broad support for the conflict, skepticism has grown over the war’s direction and the government’s management of the situation.
In the face of mounting criticism, Netanyahu’s office has highlighted his meetings with hostage families and efforts to expedite their return. During a recent visit to northern Gaza, Netanyahu commended the “amazing reservists” for their efforts, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fighting for Israel’s future and existence.
