Hey there, it’s Yoseph Haddad here. I’ve got a wild story to share with you about my experience as an Arab-Israeli soldier. Buckle up, because this isn’t your typical news headline.

The Mission That Changed Everything

Picture this: I’m on a rescue mission, trying to save my comrades from heavy anti-tank fire. Suddenly, we’re exposed. The sun’s up, and our cover’s blown. Then, boom! I feel this massive whoosh of air, and next thing I know, I’m on the ground, staring at a hole in my thigh where my foot used to be.Talk about a rough day at the office, right?

Defying Expectations: An Arab in the Israeli Defense Forces

Now, you might be wondering, “Yoseph, how the hell did an Arab end up fighting for the IDF?” Well, it’s simple. I’m an Israeli. It’s not the Jewish Defense Forces, it’s the Israeli Defense Forces. And that’s what I am – an Israeli.Surprised? I don’t blame you. The media loves to paint a black-and-white picture of Israel, but let me tell you, the reality is way more colorful.

Busting Myths: The Real Israel

Let’s break down some stereotypes, shall we?

1. The “Us vs. Them” Myth: Forget what you’ve heard about Israelis vs. Palestinians. According to a 2020 poll, only 7% of Arabs in Israel call themselves “Palestinian.” A whopping 74% identify as Israeli-Arab or just plain Israeli. Mind-blowing, right?
2. Arabs in Medicine: You know how people joke about Jews being doctors? Well, in Israel, Arabs are killing it in the medical field. We make up 20% of the population but 30% of physicians and 35% of pharmacists. Not too shabby, huh?
3. Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Remember that stereotype about Jewish bankers? Well, guess what? The head of Israel’s biggest bank is an Arab. How’s that for shattering expectations?

The Apartheid Lie

Now, let’s tackle the big one – the “apartheid state” lie. In a real apartheid state, some people can vote, and some can’t. But in Israel? Arabs don’t just vote – we sometimes call the shots. In 2021, Arab members of Parliament had the final say on forming the government. That’s not apartheid, folks. That’s democracy.

The Israelization Process

Here’s the thing: my generation is different. We didn’t grow up with major wars like our parents and grandparents. But we’ve all faced the same terrorist threats – bombs and rockets don’t care if you’re Jewish or Arab.This shared experience is leading to what I call “Israelization.” It’s a process where we’re coming together as Israelis, regardless of our backgrounds. It’s not perfect, and it’s not always smooth, but it’s happening.

The Real Peace Process

The media might not show it, but the real peace process happens one person at a time. It’s in the everyday interactions, the shared workplaces, the friendships that form across old divides.Is it always easy? Hell no. This is the Middle East – nothing’s ever easy here. But it’s happening, and no one’s going to stop it.

My Commitment to Israel

So yeah, I’m an Arab. I’m also an Israeli. And I’ll keep defending my country, because it’s mine just as much as anyone else’s. It’s a complex place with a complex history, but it’s home.Remember, the next time you hear a simple story about Israel, dig deeper. The truth is usually way more interesting – and hopeful – than what makes the headlines.I’m Yoseph Haddad, and I’m proud to be part of building a united Israel, one conversation at a time.