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Israel torn over enlistment of Christians

JERUSALEM, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Israeli lawmakers are debating a proposal to allow Christians to enlist in the Israeli military.

Death threats have allegedly been made against lawmakers who opposed the recruitment of Christians for the Israeli military, Ynetnews reported.

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Council of Arab Orthodox Community Azmi Hakim on Tuesday filed a police complaint over death threats he received after voicing opposition to the recruitment of Christians.

Hakim later said he has no problem with those who choose to join the army but remains opposed to the idea.

The Israeli Defense Ministry said: "We will not tolerate threats or attacks against those who promote enlistment. They will receive our support."

Christians who want to enlist say they are glad to have the opportunity to serve their country.

"All the people who are against it don't understand what we contribute. In the beginning, those who weren't happy with my decision created problems for me but I've proven myself," said a 19-year-old woman whom Ynetnews said is a Christian.

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