Sahar Vardi has served three prison sentences for her refusal to be conscripted into Israel's military service. She works with other refusers and served as Coordinator of AFSC's Israel program in east Jerusalem.

Note: Sahar Vardi is the Coordinator of the Israel Program in AFSC's office in East Jerusalem. She is a refuser and has been working actively to oppose the occupation of Palestinian territory and the militarization of Israeli society for years. Her post below are her reflections about the context of Israeli culture and its focus on militarism as an obstacle to peace. She asks that the international community put pressure on the Israeli government to end the occupation and the human rights abuses of Palestinians. - Lucy

Udi Segal, a 19 year old Israeli, refused his mandatory military service on July 28 and was sentenced to 20 days in prison. Especially now, as Israel's ongoing attack on Gaza has claimed the lives of over 1,000 people, Udi's refusal to serve in an occupying force is an important act of resistance.

Firas Ramlawi serves as Office Manager for AFSC's Gaza office. Before joining the AFSC staff, he worked for Save the Children. 

Note: I met Firas Ramalawi in May; he handled security for the AFSC staff delegation visit and was a bright, kind guide for us all.

Ayah Bashir holds a master’s degree in global politics from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). She is a member of the Gaza-based organizing committee for boycott, divestment and sanctions against Israel and a supporter of the One Democratic State Group. She has been working with AFSC's Palestine Youth: Together for Change program.