Why it matters:
Dissent from within Israel’s military signals a potentially seismic shift in domestic attitudes toward the war, especially as strikes intensify and humanitarian concerns mount in Gaza.
Public opposition from those in uniform undermines the government’s narrative of national unity and could erode the legitimacy of its military campaign in Gaza.
The big picture:
What began as a response to Hamas' October 7 attacks has escalated into a prolonged and increasingly controversial campaign.
Since the collapse of the ceasefire in March, Israel has blocked aid to Gaza, where over 54,000 people have been killed, according to health officials in the Gaza enclave.
Now, some Israeli soldiers and commanders are questioning not just the war’s execution, but its very justification.
What he’s saying:
“I refuse to commit war crimes,” said Yuval Ben Ari, a reservist who served two rotations in Gaza before resigning in protest. “The patriotic thing to do is to say no.” He added, “As a human being, I’m calling the Israeli government to stop starving 2 million people.”
Retired Air Force pilot Guy Poran echoed the concerns: “This war is not legitimate.” He accused Netanyahu and the far-right coalition partners of the reoccupation of Gaza.
Another unnamed air force major called the Israeli government’s behavior “not what you would see from a normal, moral government,” adding, “Somehow the military has to put a stop sign in front of them.”
Key points:
- Over 12,000 Israeli service members have signed letters refusing to serve if the war continues, according to activist group Restart Israel.
- Many cite humanitarian concerns and disillusionment after witnessing the devastation in Gaza.
- Critics accuse Netanyahu of prolonging the war to preserve his fragile coalition, which includes ultranationalist ministers opposed to a ceasefire.
- The Israeli Military has reportedly dismissed or threatened to dismiss some reservists who signed protest letters.
- While some reservists face backlash for dissent, others, including high-ranking commanders, are standing by them, underscoring a deepening internal rift.
Go deeper:
Netanyahu’s political survival depends heavily on his far-right allies, many of whom oppose any ceasefire and advocate for Gaza’s full reoccupation.
Critics argue that this dynamic has shifted the war’s purpose from defense to one of political preservation and vengeance.
Even among supporters of Israel's military efforts, there’s growing discomfort with the long-term consequences of occupation.
“You cannot just displace 2 million people,” Ben Ari said. “It’s inhuman.”
Hossein Vaez
