Israeli Reservists Refuse Military Service Amid Political Tensions

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Increasing numbers of Israeli reservists are refusing to serve in the military, citing political motivations and ethical concerns. Former soldiers Max Kresch and Michael Ofer-Ziv recently shared their experiences in a podcast interview, reflecting on their time in service during heightened tensions along the northern border with Lebanon and airstrikes in Gaza.

Kresch, who served after the Hamas massacre on October 7, described the fear and aggression he witnessed among his peers, including extreme statements suggesting violence against children in Gaza. These comments, often left unchallenged, prompted him to reconsider his position on serving.

Both Kresch and Ofer-Ziv have signed an open letter publicly condemning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government, which they label as "fascist." Their testimonies highlight a growing sentiment among reservists who feel disillusioned by the current political climate in Israel and question the morality of their military involvement.

The podcast episode featuring their accounts sheds light on the broader issue of military duty in Israel and the implications of political extremism in the armed forces.

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