Bombshell pilots' letter calls war "political," demands its end

The IDF is working to prevent the publication of a letter signed by pilots stating that the current round of war in Gaza is "political" and will unnecessarily get soldiers, civilians, and hostages killed.

The letter states that "We, pilots in the reserve and retired, demand the return home of the hostages without delay (emphases in original), even at the cost of immediately ending the fighting."

It goes on to say that "At this time, the war primarily serves political interests and not security interests. The continuation of the war does not contribute to any one of its declared goals, and will lead to the deaths of hostages, of IDF soldiers, and of innocent civilians, and the wearing out of reservists."

They said that "as was proven in the past, only agreements can bring our hostages home, while military pressure leads primarily to the killing of the hostages and the endangerment of our soldiers."

The letter then issued a call to action: "we call on all Israeli citizens to enlist to action, to demand everywhere and every time: stop the fighting and return all the hostages - now"

"Every day that passes endangers their life. Every moment of hesitation is a disgrace."

Although the letter does not contain any threat to refuse to serve if called up, the IDF has often prided itself as being an apolitical institution, and is thus trying to prevent the letter from being published. IDF Air Force Commander, Major General Tomer Bar said that anyone who signs on the letter will be removed from service in the IDF.