Gender Issues and Characteristics of Israel Army

Abstract

This article covers the characteristics of Israel Army and Gender issues related to it.Israel is the only country, that has obligatory army service for both, men and women. After fin-ishing school, from the age of 18, it’s necessary for everyone to serve in the military. Since the early days of Israel state-hood, women have become the part of the Israel Defense Forces. In Israel, military service is recognized as a hallmark of citizenship. While the Jewish male, who served in combat roles, and risked his life, the Jewish woman in her auxiliary roles was only “freeing man for combat”. Although, women were officially allowed to serve in com-bat roles, their participation is still limited and Gender segre-gation remains to be a problem. In the end, gender equality should be promoted for solving the existing problems, that would lead to necessary changes in the Armed Forces.