Israeli deserters against Netanyahu: I would re-enlist if we were fighting to get the hostages back'

Assaf describes his extreme discomfort as an Israeli soldier in Gaza, reflecting on the futility of violence and the human cost of war. He emphasizes that beyond being combatants, those targeted are often individuals posing no immediate threat.

The soldiers' letter calls for accountability, highlighting the tragic loss of Gazan civilians and their discontent over the Israeli government's lack of prioritization regarding the hostages held by Hamas.

There are serious concerns over the high number of civilian casualties in Gaza and the psychological impact on Israeli soldiers, as Assaf shares a harrowing experience of aiming at a man who showed no threat.

The soldiers convey that their protest against the war aims to highlight the urgent need for a diplomatic solution and to draw attention to the suffering of both Palestinians and their compatriots held hostage.

Read at english.elpais.com