Deep Dive
Why did Yuval Green initially decide to return to the army after the October 7th attack?
Yuval felt a sense of national duty after the attack, which killed 1,200 people and abducted 250. He saw it as an existential moment and wanted to protect Israel from further harm.
What specific event in Gaza led Yuval Green to refuse further military orders?
Yuval refused an order to blow up a house in Gaza, as he found the reasons given by his commander insufficient and could not justify the destruction without a clear military purpose.
How did Yuval describe the devastation he witnessed in Gaza?
Yuval compared the destruction in Gaza to an apocalypse, describing buildings leveled by fire and missiles, and a chaotic scene of total devastation.
What were some of the behaviors of Israeli soldiers in Gaza that troubled Yuval?
Yuval witnessed soldiers looting and vandalizing Palestinian homes, using derogatory language about Palestinians, and engaging in acts of disrespect, such as dressing in stolen women's clothes.
What was the core reason Yuval and other reservists refused to continue serving in Gaza?
They believed the war was being prolonged for political reasons, specifically to benefit Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, rather than to rescue hostages or protect Israelis.
How does the Israeli military respond to reservists refusing orders?
So far, the military has allowed refusals to go quietly, as prosecuting would likely bring more publicity. However, younger conscientious objectors who have not yet served have faced prison time.
What is the broader significance of reservists refusing to serve in Gaza?
Their refusal reflects deep political divisions within Israeli society, with some viewing the war as necessary for survival, while others see it as prolonged for political gain.
What is the current sentiment among the majority of Israelis regarding the war in Gaza?
A majority of Israelis support a ceasefire and the return of hostages, though many still view the war as necessary to eliminate the threat from Hamas.
How has the Israeli military changed over the past 20 years?
The military has seen an increase in religious nationalists, particularly those supporting settlements in the West Bank and Gaza, leading to concerns among secular and left-wing reservists about the direction of the army.
What is Fergal Keane's overall takeaway from reporting on the conflict in Israel and Gaza?
Keane feels immense sadness, seeing no signs of movement toward peace or a just solution, with the conflict remaining profoundly unstable and deeply divisive.
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