Once seen as a badge of honour and a core of Israeli identity, military service is now nothing but a burden to 25 percent of Israel's youth. In a country that was founded on the principles of universal service, a nation that is in perpetual conflict with its neighbours, around 25 percent of Israel's youth are doing everything in their power to evade mandatory military service. For decades after the establishment of the state, prominence in the military was seen as a badge of honour. Groups of young soldiers clutching rifles was a common sight on the streets of Israel, and for many, serving in the army was the core of Israeli identity. But now few Israelis are willing to take on the burden of service. For many, 17-year-old Saar Vardi is considered to be a traitor, a coward and a parasite. But "draft dodger" Vardi believes that if more people thought like her, the Middle East would be a more peaceful place. Vardi is part of a growing cadre of young Israelis who are refusing to sign up...