After 56 days in Military Prison - Hallel Rabin was finally released last Sunday!
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I'm so happy to write to you as a free person. I was first imprisoned on September after refusing to draft to the Israeli military for reasons of conscience. I didn't want to be a soldier for occupation and war, and the reality in occupied Palestine only strengthened my decision. On the day of my enlistment I arrived at the conscription base knowing that I was going to jail. But it still was the longest, most exhausting day of my life.
I was ready to remain in prison until my arguments and belief were to be officially recognized by the state. Many thought it was a hopeless battle, but thanks to your international solidarity and to the activists of Mesarvot in Israel we've won it together. I received my exemption form military service as a pacifist. This was my non-violent way to resist the abundance of violence in our reality. Refusing to serve in the army is my small act of making change - of not giving up on my values and hope, and of breaking the cycle of participation in fear, hatred and violence. Together, we proved this small step can also become significant.
I chose to make my refusal public in hope and intention that my act will inspire others to do good, and give strength and solidarity to those who need it. I wanted other teenagers in Israel to know this option is possible. Unfortunately, many in Israel don't want to hear different voices. Going public also meant I was accused of treason, and became the target of backlash and hate speech. But thanks to everyone around the world who showed solidarity towards me I kept my spirits high while in jail. I hope you keep supporting the movement of young Israelis which oppose militarism, occupation and war. Just click here to remain informed and updated, if you haven't already subscribed to our newsletter, click here: refuser.org/signup
While I was released from prison, Israel's policy towards refusers and activists against the occupation haven't changed. Every refuser and conscientious objectors in danger of prolonged and arbitrary military detention. Even as of this moment, an Israeli girl refuser is imprisoned by the military. I met her while we were both in jail, but she wishes to remain anonymous as of now. I hope you can consider to support our movement and pitch in a few dollars a month here. Such recurring donations, even $3, $10 or $15 a month, really help us to develop our movement against the occupation and support the jailed refusers of the future.
Solidarity Forever,
Hallel Rabin, Free Refuser