jfid – The conflict between Israel and Palestine has persisted for decades, even before Israel officially declared its independence in 1948.
The dispute originated from both sides claiming the same land, the area formerly known as British Mandate Palestine.
In 1947, the United Nations (UN) proposed a plan to divide Palestine into two states, Israel for Jews and Palestine for Arabs.
Arabs rejected this plan, viewing it as a betrayal of their rights as indigenous people.
In 1948, Jewish people in Palestine declared the independence of Israel, recognized by the United States and several other countries. The next day, forces from Egypt, Transjordan (now Jordan), Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq invaded.
Israelis successfully resisted, securing crucial territories like Galilee, the Palestinian coast, and a land strip connecting the coastal region to the western part of Jerusalem.
Since then, the conflict has continued, marked by significant wars like the Six-Day War (1967), Yom Kippur War (1973), and the First and Second Intifadas (1987-1993, 2000-2005).
In the midst of this lengthy and intricate conflict emerges a surprising phenomenon: an increasing number of Arabs, particularly Muslims, joining the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
The IDF is the official name for the Israeli military, comprising the army, navy, and air force.
According to IDF’s official data, around 606 Arab Muslim individuals joined the IDF in 2020. This number rose compared to 489 in 2019 and 436 in 2018. Recent reports indicate a further increase in Muslim enlistment in the Israeli army in 2023.
One targeted community for IDF recruitment is the Arab Bedouin Muslim group, showing nearly a twofold increase in two years, from 84 individuals in 2018 to 171 in 2020.
In 2017, only 45 individuals from this group were recruited. Given this rise, IDF has now opened two basic training platoons for each mandatory military service.
Reasons and Motivations
What motivates Arabs, especially Muslims, to join the IDF, traditionally considered an enemy by many Arabs and Muslims? Do they not feel guilty or betray their brethren fighting for Palestinian independence?
It turns out that the reasons and motivations for Arabs joining the IDF vary, ranging from economic, social, political to ideological. Here are some frequently cited reasons:
- Economic: Many Arabs join the IDF for economic reasons, seeking better income, allowances, and job opportunities. Being an IDF soldier provides access to better education, health, housing, and retirement benefits compared to civilian life. Additionally, they can acquire skills and experiences beneficial for their future.
- Social: Some Arabs join the IDF for social reasons, aiming to feel more integrated into Israeli society. Being an IDF soldier gives them the chance to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities, fostering tolerance, understanding, and friendships. Moreover, they can gain respect and appreciation from Israeli society, often viewed as second-class citizens.
- Political: Political reasons also drive some Arabs to join the IDF, wanting to advocate for their rights as Israeli citizens. Being an IDF soldier allows them to participate in the democratic process, influence public policies, and demand fair and equal treatment. Additionally, they can gain a stronger voice and representation in the Israeli parliament and government.
- Ideological: Some Arabs join the IDF for ideological reasons, supporting the existence and security of Israel. Serving in the IDF offers them the opportunity to contribute to the country’s defense, counter terrorism, and maintain peace. Furthermore, they can develop pride and loyalty to Israel, considering it their homeland.
Impact and Challenges
While there are various reasons and motivations behind Arabs joining the IDF, this phenomenon poses undeniable impacts and challenges. Here are some:
- Discrimination: Despite being IDF soldiers, many Arabs still face discrimination and stigma from Israeli society, especially from nationalists and right-wing factions. They are often suspected of being spies, traitors, or collaborators. Additionally, they may experience unfair and unequal treatment within the military, such as receiving less appealing assignments, inadequate facilities, or slower promotions.
- Conflict: Despite being IDF soldiers, many Arabs experience conflict and dilemmas with their families, friends, and communities, especially from Palestinian and pro-Palestinian perspectives. They are often viewed as traitors, bootlickers, or enemies. They may also face threats, intimidation, or violence from radical groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad.
- Identity: Despite being IDF soldiers, many Arabs undergo identity crises and confusion, particularly among Muslim and Arab circles. They often feel torn between two worlds—the Israeli and the Arab worlds. Additionally, they may feel unaccepted by both worlds, perceived as outsiders, minorities, or pawns.
Conclusion
The phenomenon of Arabs joining the IDF is a complex and controversial one that cannot be simplified or generalized. It reflects various reasons and motivations, impacts and challenges, as well as hopes and aspirations of those involved.
