A Bit Fruity with Matt Bernstein The Trans Teen Imprisoned for Refusing to Join the IDF
Aug 6, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Yona Roseman, a 19-year-old Israeli transgender woman, shares her powerful story of refusing to serve in the IDF due to the ongoing plight of Palestinians. Yona speaks candidly about the brutal experiences faced by LGBTQ individuals in Israel, especially the dangers posed to queer Palestinians. She reflects on her emotional journey as she anticipates imprisonment and the complexities of growing up with conflicting identities in a militarized society. Yona's activism and resilience shine through as she emphasizes the importance of community and conscience.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Mandatory Israeli Military Conscription
- Israel enforces mandatory military conscription for all Jewish teenagers which plays a huge role in society.
- Refusal to serve is punishable by repeated imprisonment and leads to social ostracism.
Repeated Sentencing for Refusers
- Yona will begin imprisonment shortly after refusing military conscription, facing repeated sentences until the army exempts her or gives up.
- Refusers typically serve month-long jail terms, sometimes totaling up to six months or more consecutively.
Nervousness About Imprisonment
- Yona feels nervous about jail and anticipates solitary confinement of 22 hours daily due to her trans identity.
- The looming imprisonment and its conditions cause her ongoing emotional distress.