More than 1,000 current and former Israeli Air Force reservists have signed a public letter urging an end to the war in Gaza to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
The letter, published Thursday in Israeli media, declares the conflict no longer serves its stated objectives but rather political and personal interests.
The reservists warned the continued fighting puts captives, soldiers, and civilians in greater danger.
“Only an agreement can return hostages safely, while military pressure mainly leads to their deaths,” the signatories wrote.
They called on Israelis to mobilize and demand action.
Among those signing was former army chief Dan Halutz. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the group as “fringe extremists” seeking to destabilize Israeli society and topple the government.
Defense Minister Israel Katz condemned the move, saying it undermines the war’s legitimacy.
Haaretz reported that the air force chief has dismissed some active reservists who signed the letter, though the exact number remains unclear.
Dissent is spreading across Israel’s military ranks.
Around 150 naval officers and hundreds of Armored Corps reservists have echoed the call to end the war and bring the hostages home, sending separate letters of protest.
Adding to the momentum, dozens of military reserve doctors submitted a petition to the government.
They demanded an immediate ceasefire, stating that the war has drifted far from its original purpose.
Israel estimates 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with at least 22 still alive.
A ceasefire agreement that could have secured their release was derailed when Israel resumed its offensive.
Since October 2023, the war has claimed over 50,800 Palestinian lives and devastated the Gaza Strip.
International courts are now investigating Israel’s actions for potential war crimes and genocide.
