Israeli Soldiers, Educators, and Doctors Sign Mass Petition to End Gaza War; Netanyahu Issues Stern Warning

Israeli Soldiers, Educators, and Doctors Sign Mass Petition to End Gaza War; Netanyahu Issues Stern Warning
April 12 | Jerusalem

Hundreds of current and former Israeli soldiers have signed a new petition calling for an end to the Gaza war and the implementation of a prisoner exchange agreement. On Friday, members from various branches of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) — including elite units such as Intelligence Unit 8200, Sayeret Matkal, Shayetet 13, and Shaldag — added their signatures in solidarity with the initiative.

Israeli broadcaster KAN reported that 20-30% of the signatories are currently serving in the military reserves. The movement began on Thursday and, to date, six petitions have been circulated and signed.

A Wave of Military and Civilian Protests:

• First petition: Signed by around 1,000 members of the Israeli Air Force, followed by another 1,000 academics.

• Second petition: Signed by hundreds from the Armored Corps and Navy.

• Third petition: Came from dozens of reserve military doctors.

• Fourth petition: Signed by hundreds from Intelligence Unit 8200.

• Fifth petition: Endorsed by nearly 100 military physicians.

• Sixth (latest) petition: Included hundreds from elite and special forces units.

Netanyahu’s Warning

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning, stating that any active-duty soldiers who signed the petition could face dismissal from service.

Renewed War in Gaza

On March 18, Israel resumed its military offensive in Gaza, breaking the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement established on January 19.

Since the conflict erupted following Hamas's attack on October 7 last year, approximately 51,000 Palestinians have been killed, the majority of whom are women and children. International organizations now report that the entire Gaza Strip has been reduced to rubble and is no longer habitable.

International Legal Action

In November, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing allegations of genocide and crimes against humanity.

Separately, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is also hearing a case accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza.