Why these Israeli men volunteered to fight - but now refuse to return to Gaza

In Israel, a significant number of soldiers are grappling with a difficult decision about whether to continue fighting in Gaza. One of these soldiers is Yuval Green, a 26-year-old medic who served in the Israeli Defense Forces. He was called to action after a devastating attack by Hamas on October 7, which resulted in the loss of many lives and left countless others in distress. Yuval, like many others, felt an immediate sense of duty to protect his country and its people. He recalls the horrifying scenes he witnessed, including dead bodies on the streets and the destruction of homes. Initially, he had no doubts about his commitment to serve, believing it was essential to respond to the attack and bring the hostages back home. However, as time passed and he experienced the brutal realities of war, Yuval began to question his role in the conflict. He is now among a group of over 165 Israeli Defense Forces reservists who have signed a public letter stating they will refuse to serve unless the hostages are returned. This decision reflects a growing sentiment among some soldiers who are prioritizing their moral beliefs over military orders. In a country still reeling from the trauma of the October 7 attack, those who refuse to fight for reasons of conscience represent a minority within a military of approximately 465,000 reservists. Reports indicate that a rising number of soldiers are not showing up for duty, with estimates suggesting a drop of 15% to 25% in troop attendance. This decline is attributed to exhaustion and burnout from prolonged service. While public support for the refusers may not be widespread, there is evidence that their demands resonate with a growing segment of the Israeli population. A recent opinion poll revealed that 45% of Jewish Israelis favor ending the war with a ceasefire to secure the hostages' return, compared to 43% who advocate for continued military action against Hamas. This shift in public opinion highlights the complexities of the situation and the desire for peace among many citizens. Yuval's refusal to fight stems from a deep moral conviction that developed during the early days of the conflict. He recalls hearing disturbing rhetoric from political leaders and religious figures calling for extreme measures against the people of Gaza. This language troubled him, as it seemed to dehumanize the very individuals he was meant to protect. Yuval's turning point came when he received an order to burn down a house without a clear justification. He approached his commander, seeking an explanation, but the answers he received were unsatisfactory. This moment solidified his decision to refuse further service in Gaza. The Israeli Defense Forces have stated that their actions are based on military necessity and comply with international law, emphasizing that Hamas often uses civilian areas for military purposes. However, the experiences shared by Yuval and other soldiers reveal a troubling reality on the ground, where the lines between right and wrong become increasingly blurred in the chaos of war.