A group of 250 reservists and alumni of the Israeli military's intelligence unit have joined calls to stop the fighting in the Gaza Strip and realize the return of Israeli hostages.



The group made the petition in a letter published on Friday. It follows a similar letter from about 1,000 Israeli Air Force reservists a day before.



The moves come amid increasing casualties in Gaza after talks stalled with Hamas to extend the ceasefire, and Israeli forces resumed attacks on March 18. Health authorities in Gaza say since then the death toll has reached 1,542.



Criticism has been rising in Israel that the resumption of attacks may risk the lives of hostages held by Hamas.



The intelligence unit members' letter said continuing the war does not contribute to any of Israel's declared goals and will lead to the deaths of the hostages, soldiers and innocent people.



Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rebuffed the letters in a statement, calling them expressions that weaken the military and strengthen the enemies in wartime. He said they are unforgivable.



Israeli media reported the military's decision to dismiss the active duty Air Force reservists who published the letter from service.