130 Israeli soldiers refuse to serve unless government works towards captive deal

An open letter signed by 130 Israeli soldiers says they will no longer serve in the Israeli army unless the government works towards a captive and ceasefire deal.

The letter, which was signed by reservists and draftees from the Armored Corps, the Artillery Corps, the Home Front Command, the Air Force, and the Navy, was addressed to the Israeli government, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, cabinet members, and the army's chief of staff.

Out of the 251 captives that were initially taken by Hamas, there are 101 still held in Gaza, with many Israelis demanding a captive-release deal.

"Continuing the war in Gaza does not only delay the hostages' return from captivity but also endangers their lives", the letter reads, adding that more captives have been killed by Israeli strikes than rescued.

"We…announce that if the government does not immediately change course and work toward a deal to bring the hostages back home, we will not be able to continue serving," the letter says.

According to Haaretz, many soldiers have refused to report for reserve duty that involves specific missions, while others are still considering whether to refuse.

The international community has been calling for a ceasefire in Israel's war on Gaza, along with a deal to release Israeli captives and Palestinian prisoners.

The United States and mediators Qatar and Egypt have for months attempted to secure a ceasefire but have failed to bring Israel and Hamas to a final agreement.

Israel has faced backlash over its failure to accept any ceasefire deal, with Netanyahu refusing to comply with the demands of the deal, wanting to maintain Israel's military assault and continue its occupation.

Thousands of Israelis have been taking to the streets in Israel, demanding the release of the captives and an end to its war on Gaza, holding the government accountable for its failure to secure a deal.

UK families of Gaza captives said Israel's war on Lebanon' takes focus away' from their loved ones being released.