A group of 130 Israeli soldiers have taken a bold stance by signing a letter refusing to serve unless the government reaches a cease-fire and hostage release deal in Gaza. The letter, addressed to Israeli Cabinet ministers and the Israel Defense Forces chief of staff, includes signatories from various military units.
The soldiers expressed their opposition to continuing operations in Gaza, citing the delay in hostages’ release and the risk to their lives. They warned that they will not be able to continue serving unless a hostage exchange deal is pursued, stating that the red line has been crossed for some and is rapidly approaching for others.
Despite a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire, Israel has continued its offensive on the Gaza Strip since a previous Hamas attack, resulting in thousands of casualties. With more than 42,000 people killed, mostly women and children, and over 97,300 others injured, the soldiers’ plea for peace and humanitarian consideration is a powerful call for change.