Israel's Troubling Recruitment of Asylum Seekers: A Step Towards Mercenary Warfare Amid Gaza Conflict

The Israeli army is facing a significant shortage of soldiers due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, prompting controversial recruitment tactics involving African asylum seekers. According to Haaretz, these individuals are being coerced into combat roles with the promise of permanent residency, raising serious ethical and legal concerns. The editorial highlights the potential transformation of the Israeli military into a mercenary force, drawing parallels with Russia's Wagner Group. This alarming trend not only questions the morality of the Israeli army but also reflects the increasing desperation within its ranks amid the prolonged war. The exploitation of vulnerable populations in conflict zones is a grave violation of international law, and the implications of such actions could have far-reaching consequences for Israel's global standing and military integrity.