Ariel Zamiyr

Even as a child, I realized that I didn't feel like a boy or a girl. It was something in between, but I couldn't clearly define it back then. Later, at school, I was often put down because of my feminine appearance; everyone thought I was gay. It wasn't an easy time, and even now, at 19, I'm still facing difficult years. While it’s somewhat more socially accepted in Israel today, and the military even has a catalog of rights for transgender people, the reality is often different. You’re still considered very special, and not always in a good way.

Since I am absolutely against war and want to live in peace, military service is out of the question for me. But it is compulsory here from the age of 18. Anyone who refuses will go to prison. Refusers are socially ostracized here; they are considered traitors. It’s a big taboo. Despite this, I have a lot of support from my parents and close friends, which is the only way I’m getting through it.

My stance against military service has made me an even bigger target for criticism and isolation. Social media is a minefield of hostility, with strangers and sometimes even acquaintances hurling insults and threats. It can be overwhelming, but I try to focus on the positive messages and the support I receive. My parents remind me daily that standing up for my beliefs is important, even when it feels like the world is against me.

I speak out publicly because I believe in the power of conversation. By sharing my story, I hope to make others think and question the norms that force us into roles we don’t fit and actions we don’t believe in. Maybe, just maybe, there will come a time when we look back in shame and ask ourselves why we went to war, why we forced young people into uniforms, and why we made those who sought peace into pariahs. Until then, I’ll keep speaking, keep resisting, and keep hoping for a better future.