East Jerusalem Christian Woman Detained as Draft Dodger

A 19-year-old Christian woman from East Jerusalem, Leah Faadalla, was arrested on Sunday, September 13, on suspicion of evading mandatory military service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The arrest occurred as she was attempting to travel abroad with her family. Faadalla, who holds Polish citizenship and permanent resident status in Israel, resides in the Arab neighborhood of Beit Hanina. Her mother, Gabriel, told Ynet that her daughter was taken into custody at the airport in front of her younger sister. Gabriel stated that she tried to explain it was a mistake, but was not allowed to speak. The mother explained that Leah grew up in a Christian family, attended an American school, and does not speak Hebrew. Gabriel believes the misunderstanding may stem from the family's previous residence in Petah Tikva 14 years ago, suggesting a draft notice might have been sent to their old address. Israeli law mandates that permanent residents over 18 are subject to IDF conscription, though this typically does not apply to East Jerusalem residents without Israeli citizenship. While such individuals usually do not receive draft notices, the possibility theoretically exists. Gabriel also reported that she has been unable to contact her daughter, and a hired lawyer has been denied access. Leah reportedly spoke to her mother briefly, stating she is in a military prison as a draft evader. Gabriel described the situation as a "nightmare," emphasizing her daughter's innocence and the trauma inflicted on both Leah and her younger sister. The IDF Spokesperson's Unit commented that the "issue is being reviewed" and that the army "sends draft notices in accordance with the law."