Reservists call on IDF to finish the fight or send them home

Nearly eight months into the war against Hamas, Israeli reservists on the front lines in Gaza are voicing growing frustration. A message reported by Walla encapsulates the sentiment “Decisively win the war or let us return home.”

These calls come from units operating deep within Gaza, where fatigue is mounting, and progress often feels incremental. Troops are demanding clarity: either finish the mission or end the endless rotation between war and waiting.

IDF commanders responded by outlining the complexity of their work and reaffirming their focus on returning hostages and dismantling Hamas’s infrastructure. “We’re being highly calculated,” a senior officer in Division 98 said. “When you understand the system, you don’t need to find every tunnel just the critical ones.”

In Khan Yunis, one of Gaza’s most entrenched terror strongholds, IDF forces recently broke through key corridors that now allow deeper strikes and facilitate hostage rescue efforts. Despite progress, officers acknowledge the toll. “The soldiers have been fighting a long time. Soon, they’ll go home to refresh. It’s crucial that we care for them,” said a senior officer in Brigade 7.

The army is also grappling with logistics challenges, particularly with tank spare parts. But the focus remains: hostage recovery and Hamas’s defeat. “The hostages didn’t come back because Hamas had a change of heart. They returned because we created the conditions,” said the Division 98 officer. “Security takes precedence over speed. We protect our soldiers.”

This past week, the IDF recovered the bodies of Judith and Gadi Haggai from Hamas tunnels in a daring overnight operation. “In the end, two hostages were brought home. That’s a lot. Some are in tunnels, some held by dozens of terrorists it takes time,” the officer added.

Though battle-worn, motivation remains high. In Battalion 77, attendance among reservists is at 120% a testament to Israel’s enduring unity and commitment. “Behind me are 500 fighters, half of them reservists. They’re still the first to volunteer.”

Israel faces a delicate balance: bringing home every hostage while ensuring the safety of every soldier. The mission continues with determination and with heart.

Share this story to stand with Israel’s brave defenders, and subscribe to our newsletter for updates from the front lines.