By Goel Beno
Arab-Israeli whose kids serve in army supports campaign for equal share of the burden, slams Arab lawmakers for 'perpetuating sense of inequality among Arabs'
"Arabs, not just the haredim, must also carry their equal share of the burden, stop complaining and begin serving in the IDF – or at least join the national service program," an Arab-Israeli woman said Wednesday.
During a visit to the so-called "suckers' tent" - an encampment by army reservists from the 'Equal Burden Forum' who are demanding all Israelis serve in the IDF or perform national service – Anet Haschaya (43), said "the Arabs in the country must give more of themselves to get more."
Haschaya is leading by example. Her 22-year-old son Deddo was recently released from the army after completing two years in the Duchifat Battalion; her daughter Suha, 20, serves in the IDF Education Corps, while 19-year-old Hussam is expected to be recruited to the Golani Brigade after completing a year of national service (shnat sherut) in the south.
"Israel's Arabs shouldn't try to turn back time, but raise their heads high and look to the future," she said.
Haschaya, a Muslim, was born in Akko. Twenty years ago, after her divorce, she moved with her children to Kibbutz Yechiam, and today she resides in Kfar Vradim, where she manages a hair salon. "I was born and raised (in Israel). I have no other homeland.
"My children studied in the Jewish school system and were taught to love the homeland and contribute as much as possible," she told Yedioth Ahronoth.
Haschaya, who leveled harsh criticism at Arab Knesset members, said she was considering joining Yisrael Beitenu, Kadima or the Labor Party.
"In my opinion, the Arab MKs are only looking out for themselves, instead of caring for the Arab public," she claimed.
"Instead of bringing Arabs closer together, they are perpetuating their sense of inequality. They (MKs) are disparaging the country – and the country is paying them to do it! Those who wish to fight the country should leave and do so from the outside," she said.
