Israeli newspapers reported last Tuesday that hundreds of former Israeli soldiers called for priority to the release of hostages rather than continuing the war in Gaza.
A letter signed by 472 former soldiers from the Special Forces, including 135 active bookers, said the release of hostages was the most important moral order, taking precedence over all other targets.
The letter argues that the continued occupation of hostages in the Gaza Strip undermines the moral foundation of the country. Palestinian Islamic organization Hamas demanded an end to the war in the Gaza Strip in exchange for more people kidnapped from Israel.
Calls within Israel, including the Army, have been growing, criticizing the country’s actions in coastal areas and questioning government priorities. Some even called for an end to the war.
The Times of Israel reported that about 1,700 artists and cultural figures called for an immediate cessation of fighting and the release of hostages.
They believe that the Gaza war endangers hostages and soldiers and has caused thousands of casualties and suffering to both sides in order to serve political interests.
In addition, 350 Israeli authors demanded an end to the war.
In another letter, about 600 architects, engineers and city planners reportedly demanded the release of hostages, even if that means an end to the war.
Israeli media reported that more and more reserve personnel refused to return to the Gaza war because they disagreed with the military’s actions and were concerned about potential Israeli reoccupation in the Gaza Strip.
Smoke rolling after the Israeli air strikes were seen from the camp in Jabbaria. Saher Alghorra/Zuma Press Wire/DPA
