In a recent FIDF Live Briefing, we had the distinct honor of hosting Gadeer Kamal-Mreeh, a trailblazing leader whose personal story illuminates the rich, multicultural fabric of Israeli society. As the first Druze woman to serve in the Knesset and the first non-Jewish, Hebrew-speaking anchor on a major Israeli network, she offers a powerful perspective on the unbreakable bond between the Druze and Jewish people—a bond she calls a “covenant of life.”
An Identity of Bridges
“I’m an Israeli but not a Jew. I am an Arab but not a Muslim. I’m a minority within the Arab minority.” This is how Kamal-Mreeh describes her identity. The Druze are a unique religious and ethnic group, with a community of 150,000 in Israel, primarily located in 16 villages in the country’s northern regions of the Carmel, the Galilee, and the Golan Heights.
Raised with the belief that she was not simply a member of a minority group but “an integral part of the state of Israel,” Kamal-Mreeh was taught by her father to be an “engaged, responsible social agent.” This principle has guided her career and her advocacy, helping the Druze community become a successful model of integration that Israel can be proud of.
A Historic Partnership and Unwavering Service
The deep connection between the Druze and Jewish people predates the founding of the state itself. This unique relationship was forged in the last century, built on mutual values and trust that led Druze leaders and fighters to stand with the Jewish people to build the state of Israel.
This partnership is powerfully reflected in the Druze community’s commitment to national service.
- A Legacy of Service: In 1956, mandatory military conscription was applied to Druze men at the request of community leaders.
- Highest Enlistment Rate: While Jews comprise the majority of the IDF, Druze men enlist at a higher rate—82%—than their Jewish counterparts.
- A Strategic Asset: As native Arabic speakers who think and dream in Hebrew, Druze soldiers serve as a vital cultural bridge, often in high-ranking and sensitive positions within the Israel Defense Forces.
Kamal-Mreeh argues for a new understanding of this bond. “We were historically saying ‘covenant of blood’,” she explained. “I said we need to change the terminology. It’s a ‘covenant of life’… I am not coming here to die with you. I’m coming here to live with you as an equal citizen.”
Shared Sacrifice, Unbreakable Unity
This covenant was on full display following the horrific attacks of October 7th. The Druze community responded immediately, opening their homes and donating supplies, while their sons and daughters served on the front lines. The community felt the pain of every loss, including heroic soldiers like Lt. Col. Salman Habaka, who drove his tank into Kibbutz Be’eri to protect families, and Lt. Col. Alim Abdallah, who rushed to rescue a Bedouin hostage. These stories, Kamal-Mreeh states, show the true Israel.
The community suffered its own “black Saturday” in July 2024, when a Hezbollah attack on a soccer field in the Druze village of Majdal Shams killed 12 children. In the aftermath, the hug the community received from all sectors of Israeli society—including settlers who traveled to the Golan Heights for the funerals—served as a catalyst, further strengthening the community’s Israeli identity.
Challenges and a Hopeful Future
Despite this deep integration and loyalty, the Druze community faces challenges. Many Druze towns rank low on the national socioeconomic scale, creating gaps that the government is working to address. As the national political discourse in Israel evolves, there are also internal questions about identity and belonging.
Yet, the relationship between the Druze and the Jews has consistently overcome challenges because it is based on shared values. Gadeer Kamal-Mreeh’s journey from a small village to the Knesset and onto the world stage is a testament to the strength of her community and the promise of Israeli society.
A Call to Action
The story of the Druze people is a vital part of the story of Israel. Their contributions and sacrifices strengthen the nation and the Israel Defense Forces. As we reflect on this “covenant of life,” let us deepen our understanding of the diverse communities that stand together to protect their shared homeland. We invite you to learn more and to support the Friends of the IDF, as we fulfill our mission to look after all the brave soldiers who look after Israel.
Let Us Know What You Think