jfid – You may wonder why some Arabs are willing to join the Israeli forces, a country traditionally considered an enemy by much of the Islamic world.
What drives them to take steps seemingly contrary to their own identity and interests? Is this a divide-and-conquer tactic by Israel to weaken Palestinian resistance, or are there more complex reasons?
This news might surprise you as we often hear about the conflicts between Israel and Palestine and the support given by Arab and Muslim countries to the Palestinian people.
However, there are Arabs, particularly from the Bedouin community, who choose to be part of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
According to IDF’s official data, in 2020, about 606 Muslim Arabs were recruited into the IDF, an increase from 489 in 2019 and 436 in 2018.
Most of them are from the Bedouin community in northern Israel, traditionally more accessible for IDF recruitment. IDF has even established two special platoons for basic training for Bedouin recruits.
So, what motivates them to join the IDF? Do they feel threatened by Hamas or other militant groups operating in Gaza or the West Bank?
Do they receive rewards or incentives from the Israeli government? Do they face discrimination or pressure from other Arab communities?
Do they have dual loyalty or identity as Israeli citizens and Muslims?
The answers to these questions may not be easily simplified, as individuals have diverse motivations and backgrounds. However, we can look at some factors to understand this phenomenon.
One possible influencing factor is the economic aspect. Joining the IDF can offer Arab youths opportunities for better education, training, skills, and income compared to relying on informal or traditional jobs.
Additionally, they may access healthcare, housing, and social welfare provided by the state, improving their quality of life and future prospects.
Another factor might be social. Arab youths joining the IDF may feel a connection to Israel, their birthplace and upbringing.
They may also appreciate the democratic, pluralistic, and tolerant values embraced by Israel, distinct from other Arab countries often experiencing conflict, instability, or human rights violations. Joining the IDF could be a way to express loyalty and citizenship.
A third potential factor is religious. Arab youths in the IDF may not feel compelled to choose between religion and country, as they can still practice their Muslim faith.
They may also remain unaffected by propaganda declaring Israel as an enemy or colonizer that must be fought against. Joining the IDF could be a way to express their identity and beliefs.
Certainly, not all Arabs agree or support the decision of those joining the IDF. Some criticize, condemn, or even threaten them as traitors, collaborators, or hypocrites.
They may feel that joining the IDF means supporting policies or actions of Israel considered harmful or oppressive to the Palestinian people. They may also perceive it as a betrayal of solidarity or brotherhood with Muslims worldwide.
Whatever views we hold on this phenomenon, we must acknowledge it as a complex and dynamic reality that cannot be easily concluded or boxed into simplicity.
It is a challenge for us to view the world more openly and critically, avoiding stereotypes or prejudices. It is an opportunity for us to learn and appreciate the diversity and uniqueness of humanity without sacrificing our principles and values.
