Movement in Israel Opposes Militaristic Society
That Devalues Lives of Arabs

New Profile, is a movement formed in Israel by a group of women and men who believe that Israel need not be a militarized society. They are convinced that the population does not need to go on being endlessly mobilized and living as warriors. They feel that the hegemonic culture in Israel nurtures admiration for might and physical prowess, an aggrandizement of Jewish nationals, and a devaluation of the lives of Arab nationals. They are concerned that the words “national security” have often masked calculated decisions to choose military action for the achievement of political goals.

This group opposes the use of the army, police, security forces in the ongoing oppression and discrimination of the Palestinian citizens of Israel, while demolishing their homes, denying them building and development rights, using violence to disperse their demonstrations. They feel that there are many women and men, parents and youngsters, who object profoundly, morally to Israel's continued wars-of-choice. Given the widespread opposition to the kind of roles assigned the Israeli army for many years, thousands of young women and men are currently avoiding conscription or avoiding combat duty. Some 25% of the annual candidate recruits are presently exempted for health-related reasons or found "unfit" for service. It is common knowledge that a large proportion of these in fact choose not to serve. Yet, Israeli law does not acknowledge men's basic human right to conscientious objection. The group regards Israeli conscription law as discriminatory and non-democratic, and call for the recognition of the basic right of every person, men included, to act in accordance with their conscience.

For more information on New Profile, go to info@newprofile.org or call 972-(0)3-5160119. The address is

New Profile,
P.O. Box 3454,
Ramat Hasharon 47100,
Israel