Tel Aviv: Hundreds of Israeli veterans have joined the growing chorus of voices calling for an end to the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and the return of hostages through a prisoner swap. Thousands of soldiers have already been vocal in their demands for a cessation of hostilities described as genocidal.
According to Anadolu Agency, over 1,600 veterans from the Paratroopers and Infantry brigades have signed a letter urging the return of all Israeli captives held in Gaza, even if it requires halting the ongoing military operations. The letter emphasizes the importance of saving lives and upholding the brigade’s motto of “No soldier left behind.”
In a related development, Israel’s Army Radio reported that more than 170 alumni from an intelligence program signed a similar letter. These graduates of the army’s Talpiot Academy echoed the sentiments of soldiers and veterans who have criticized the government’s war policy, accusing it of prioritizing political and personal interests over genuine security needs.
The letters and petitions criticize the continuation of the war, arguing it fails to achieve its stated objectives and only results in more deaths, including those of captives, soldiers, and civilians. These appeals represent a broader movement among current and former military personnel advocating for an end to the conflict and the safe return of hostages.
Since Thursday, nearly ten petitions from soldiers calling for an end to the Gaza war have been documented, according to an Anadolu count. These developments come amid threats from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to dismiss active-duty soldiers who have participated in signing the petitions.
The conflict in Gaza saw a resurgence on March 18, following the breakdown of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement that had been in place since January 19. The renewed hostilities have resulted in the deaths of nearly 51,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, since October 2023.
The situation has led to international legal scrutiny, with the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants last November for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Furthermore, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions in Gaza.