IDF: A People's Army

The full title of the book is: "Israel Defence Forces - A People's Army." It is written by Louis Williams who served in the IDF for 40+ years. The book goes in depth on why Israel has mandatory conscription of all Israelis (both men and women) - except for Israeli Arabs. It also describes the process each person must go through when they first enter the military (ie all the tests, career decisions, etc.) There is also the whole social aspect of both being in the military as well as returning to civilian life.

It was a really interesting book since it went beyond all the wars Israel has fought (although they are mentioned in the book) and dealt more with the soldiers. The fact that Israelis not only serve in the military - 3 years for men and 2 for women - but that they are then in the reserves - up til 54 years old for men and 24 for unmarried women - shows the true commitment both the Israeli Government as well as the Israeli citizen has to keeping their country safe.

One reason the Arab/Muslim countries have never won a war against Israel is because they are not truly committed to their cause. Most of their invasions and battles are simply a half-hazard attempt to show their dislike for Israel rather than for any real decisive goal. The Arabs/Muslims say they are trying to help the Palestinians regain their freedom yet the Palestinian refugees in those Arab/Muslim countries aren't allowed any freedoms.

Israel is the best example of how a society that is constantly faced with complete destruction can continue to overcome everything that comes their way. Some foreigners may not agree with their methods all the time, but those same people have not grown up knowing that the majority of the neighboring countries actively call for the total destrucion of their homeland. Even when faced with invasions, battles, rocket attacks, etc Israel still tries to adhere to International Law even when the Arabs/Muslims do not.

Israel has been around for 60+ years and it is only with the complete dedication of all its citizens that the country not only has won every war thrown at it, but continues to thrive and remain the only democratic country in the Middle East.