Is joining the army for a certain period mandatory in Israel?

Yes its mandatory for all Jewish Citizens to serve in the Army for specific time. There have been cases where people have denied to serve resulting in jail terms. read more

Yes its mandatory for all Jewish Citizens to serve in the Army for specific time. There have been cases where people have denied to serve resulting in jail terms. Do note that only people from Jewish community who are exempt from serving are Yeshiva students, physically/mentally disabled and orthodox women. read more

A rite of passage in Israel, when one turns 18, is being drafted into the military. Men serve three years and women normally serve half that long. Officers (men or women) are signed for an additional year, for the privilege of attending the Officers’ Training School. read more

In 1949, after the founding of the State of Israel, the Defense Service Law gave the IDF the authority to enlist any citizen. Draftees would then be required to show up for the draft in accordance with the military's decision to enlist them. read more