Role of Women in Israel's Military

Israel is the only country in the world to have compulsory military service for women. Many often view this required service as a progressive system that places women on an equal footing with men. However, a closer examination reveals that Israel is just as terrified as every other nation regarding the participation of women in military combat. In fact, Israel's requirement for mandatory participation in a service that discriminates against women, may be just as draconian, if not more so, than discriminating against voluntary participants. This paper explores what function women really play in the Israeli military and how and why their limited role is slowly changing for the better.

The Defense Service Law of 1959 requires all citizens and permanent residents of the State of Israel to perform military service. This includes all women between the ages of 18 and 26, who are...
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