Fergal Keane, a BBC special correspondent known for his coverage of conflicts, discusses the growing trend of Israeli reservists refusing to fight in Gaza. He shares chilling accounts from soldiers who describe their experiences as apocalyptic and raise moral dilemmas between duty and ethical beliefs. The conversation dives into the psychological toll of war, shedding light on the deep political divisions within Israeli society. Keane emphasizes how these individual stories reflect broader societal sentiments and dissent regarding military actions.
Israeli soldiers, like Yuval Green, are grappling with moral dilemmas as they witness the severe consequences of military actions in Gaza.
A growing number of reservists are publicly refusing to serve, reflecting deep divisions in Israeli society regarding military strategy and political leadership.
Deep dives
The Impact of October 7th
The October 7th attack by Hamas marked a catastrophic turning point for many Israelis, creating an immediate sense of duty among soldiers to respond. This day was characterized by widespread fear and chaos, with civilians receiving urgent news of attacks, injuries, and fatalities in their communities. Yuval Green, a combat medic who previously opposed the Israeli occupation, felt compelled to serve, undergoing a transformation as he faced the stark reality of war. The brutality of the situation was further emphasized by the death toll, with over 1,200 Israelis killed and a significant portion of the military mobilized to defend the nation.
A Shift in Perspective
As the military efforts continued, Yuval's initial sense of purpose began to wane, particularly as he witnessed the drastic consequences of the ongoing operations in Gaza. The harrowing scenes he encountered, including destruction and loss of life, deeply affected his outlook on the war, leading him to question the objectives behind certain military orders. His decision to refuse an order to demolish a house marked a significant point of internal conflict, as he grappled with the morality of the actions being taken against Palestinians. Yuval's experience illustrates the psychological toll of conflict and the struggle for soldiers who find themselves at odds with the directives of their superiors and the broader military strategy.
Voices of Dissent
Yuval's choice to leave the battlefield has led to an emerging conversation about dissent within the Israeli military, particularly as more reservists begin to question their roles. Approximately 165 reservists have publicly stated their refusal to serve without a ceasefire agreement, suggesting a growing sentiment against the prolonged conflict. This dissent is underscored by feelings of betrayal towards political leaders who many soldiers believe are using the military situation for personal gain rather than for the welfare of the nation. The situation highlights a significant divide in Israeli society, as public opinion moves towards a desire for ceasefire and dialogue, contrasting with the hardline positions held by some military and political factions.
The BBC has spoken to Israeli reservists who are refusing to return to the war in Gaza. Imbued with a sense of national duty following the October 7th attack by Hamas, but now troubled by the things they’ve witnessed in Gaza, some Israeli soldiers say they won’t return to the army.
We hear from one soldier who compares the devastation inflicted by Israel’s military in the Gaza Strip to an apocalypse, and said his colleagues would routinely loot and vandalise Palestinian houses, claims denied by the Israeli military authorities.
BBC special correspondent Fergal Keane has spoken to several of them, and tells our presenter Azadeh Moshiri why their stories reflect deep political divisions which exist within Israeli society.
The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Producers: Tom Kavanagh and Alix Pickles
Sound engineers: Mike Regaard
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson
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