Hundreds of “Hill-Top Youth” with a history of administrative detention or prosecution for criminal damage, were always rejected by the IDF as unsafe to carry weapons. With the outbreak of this war, many of these adults faced awkward questions about why they were not serving alongside their brothers, and they were inspired to apply again. The application process is rigorous and involves careful screening, police checks, and psychological evaluations, but its existence reflects a willingness to rehabilitate people with a checkered past.
Yosef M. is proud to finally wear an IDF uniform at the age of 26. He is serving in a meaningful role in defending Israel’s borders after years of feeling rejected.
H/T to AFSI member Paul Fein for sharing this story.
Source:
Yosef & the Rehabilitation of Hill-Top Youth, by Sara Manning/Jewish Press, December 23, 2024