Mesarvot

Mesarvot (Hebrew: מסרבות, literally "refusers") is a term used in Israel to refer to women who publicly declare their refusal to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) due to their opposition to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. The term specifically applies to women who are drafted into mandatory military service, as opposed to men who may refuse to serve after already being enlisted. The refusals are often accompanied by statements explaining their political and ethical motivations. The act of refusal can result in imprisonment and social stigma in Israeli society, where military service is generally highly valued. The Mesarvot movement is related to, but distinct from, other conscientious objection movements in Israel, which may include men refusing combat duty or service in the occupied territories for various reasons. The motivations of Mesarvot often focus on feminist perspectives, anti-occupation activism, and a desire to promote peace and equality for Palestinians.