Two Gujarati Women from Junagadh Serving in Israeli Army Amid Ongoing Israel-Palestine Conflict

In the midst of the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict marked by heavy airstrikes and bombings, two women of Gujarati origin have emerged in the spotlight for their service in the Israeli Army.

Nisha, stationed in the Communication and Cyber Security Department, leads a frontline unit, fearlessly taking on challenges. Riya is currently undergoing commando training with the aim of securing a permanent commission in the Israeli Army.

Both women, whose fathers hail from Kothadi village in Junagadh, have family ties that connect them to Israel. Their fathers, Jivabhai Muliyasia and Savdasbhai Muliyasia, acquired Israeli citizenship after relocating to Israel. Jivabhai runs a general store in Tel Aviv, Israel’s capital.

Israel mandates military service for individuals above 18, with exceptions granted for those who are physically or mentally challenged. Artists and athletes are also provided a 75% reduction in their mandatory service duration. Notably, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) maintains a near gender-balanced composition with both men and women serving.

While these two Gujarati women have chosen to serve in the Israel army, they are not directly participating in the current hostilities. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and his wife Anjaliben have visited Jivabhai’s residence in Tel Aviv during a previous visit.

The Israel-Gaza conflict has resulted in a dire humanitarian situation, with a significant number of displaced persons in Gaza seeking shelter in UN-run schools. Both sides have suffered casualties and significant damage to infrastructure, highlighting the ongoing human toll of the conflict.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The India English