Israeli Military Action Intensifies in Gaza, Thousands of Reserve Soldiers Deployed. Soldiers and Mothers Protest. Civilian and Hostage Situation Remains Critical Amidst War, Public Dissatisfaction Grows.
Israel Hamas War: The Israeli army continues its sustained military operations in Gaza. In recent days, the government has further intensified this campaign. Consequently, thousands of reserve soldiers have been redeployed. This move has become a cause for protest among both the local populace and the military. Several soldiers and their mothers have voiced their opposition to the government's decision. Although no official figures for this dissent are available, soldiers' and their families' discontent has been evident on social media and in recent reports.
Protests Against PM Netanyahu
Widespread demonstrations are occurring across Israel against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Protesters accuse Netanyahu of prolonging the war for political gain. They assert that the Prime Minister should prioritize the safe release of hostages and steps towards a ceasefire with Hamas. Currently, only 20 out of 48 hostages are believed to have a chance of survival.
Many critics, including former security officials, believe that the recent military offensive could negatively impact hostage release efforts. Furthermore, international criticism is escalating regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the blockade resulting from the war.
Soldiers and Mothers Protest
The group 'Soldiers for Hostages' claims to represent over 360 soldiers who have refused to serve in Gaza. Similarly, the 'Save Our Souls' (SOS) group comprises approximately 1,000 mothers of soldiers who are protesting the war. Some mothers are urging others not to send their sons back into the military, while some mothers are respecting their children's decisions.
Nurit Felsenthal Burger shared that she is so fearful of her sons being sent to Gaza that she has considered preventing them from going to protect them. Both her sons have already served in Gaza.
Soldier and medical personnel Avshalom Johar Saal (28 years old) stated that soldiers are exhausted and feel demoralized. He expressed that they do not understand what they are fighting for or the purpose of their service.
Why Public Dissatisfaction is Growing
Out of Israel's population of approximately ten million, 60,000 reserve soldiers have been recently deployed. This represents one of the largest deployments in the country's history.
Military service is mandatory for Jewish men, and many soldiers have already completed it. However, the policy of exempting ultra-Orthodox Jews is fueling public dissatisfaction. This policy has been a significant part of Netanyahu's coalition government, deepening feelings of inequality and injustice in society.
Israeli Soldiers Punished
The Israeli military states that it does not disclose the number of absentees or those refusing service. Each case is reviewed individually. The army clarified that the contribution of reserve soldiers is essential for mission success and national security. The 'Soldiers for Hostages' group claimed that at least three soldiers who refused service have been sentenced to prison this year.
Situation in Gaza
The Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the taking of 251 hostages. Public support for the war was higher at that time. Public opinion shifted after the ceasefire ended in March and the prospects for hostage release diminished. According to Gaza's Ministry of Health, over 64,000 Palestinian civilians have been killed in the war so far, with nearly half being women and children.
