Israel’s military has taken action against reservists who threatened to stop serving if the government didn’t reach a deal with Hamas to return captives still in Gaza. According to reports, soldiers who signed a statement received phone calls informing them of their suspension. The letter, signed by about 130 soldiers, has sparked criticism from some Israeli officials.
Hamas captured over 250 hostages during an attack in southern Israel on 7 October 2023, with 101 still held in Gaza. Efforts by the US, Qatar, and Egypt to mediate a ceasefire have not been successful, as Hamas insists on a prisoner swap which Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu deems unacceptable.
As pressure mounts on Netanyahu to secure a deal, Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 42,000 people, the majority of whom are civilians. With the situation escalating, the world watches on, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.