Israeli peace activists, including past and soon-to-be resisters to induction into the military, participate in a phone conversation with Gaza's Great March of Return leader Ahmed Abu Artema at the Hagada Hasmalit, Tel Aviv, December 19, 2018

Leader of Gaza March to Young Israeli Army Resisters: “You are Strong in Your Principled Stance”

A few weeks ago, dozens of Israeli activists, including past and soon-to-be resisters of military induction, participated in a rare telephone meeting initiated by the “Messarvot” network with Ahmed Abu Artema, one of the main organizers behind Gaza’s “Great March of Return.” For many of the young conscientious objectors, the Great March of Return, and…

Ayelet Brachfeld

Military Releases Objector to the Occupation after 100 days in Prison

The Israeli military released from prison on Tuesday, July 3, occupation objector Ayelet Brachfeld after incarcerating her for four prison terms totaling 100 days. Brachfeld refused to be conscripted into compulsory military service due to her opposition to the occupation of the Palestinian territories. With her release the army’s conscientious objection committee granted Brachfeld an…

“Neither a clerk nor a tank soldier, but rather a refuser and feminist” - placard at a demonstration organized by Messarvot

Leftist and Ultra-Orthodox MKs Join Forces against Conscription

The latest guidelines for conscription of ultra-Orthodox Israelis, presented by far-right Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman, has reignited debate on the issue of compulsory military service. But while Zionist politicians are divided over the existing law and compromise proposals, Knesset members from four disparate parties have joined forces to promote legislation ending military conscription altogether. Knesset member Dov Khenin…