Taking up arms for Israeli democracy
by Liat Shahaf Weiss
In a time of profound uncertainty, Brothers and Sisters in Arms has emerged as one of the most visible and determined forces working to protect Israel’s democratic foundations. Born following the government’s proposed judicial overhaul in early 2023, which would have endangered judicial independence and the rule of law, we are a nonpartisan, grassroots movement comprising Israeli army reservists, professionals, activists and everyday citizens who believe that Israel must remain both Jewish and democratic, and that these two pillars must stand together, not in opposition.
We are driven by the vision of an Israel where democracy is not just a form of governance but a shared and inclusive national identity. We believe in the values outlined in Israel’s Declaration of Independence: liberty, justice and peace, with equal rights for all citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity or gender. These values are the foundation not only of a functioning democracy but also of a resilient and secure society.
Since we were founded, Brothers and Sisters in Arms has become the leading civic operator of the democratic camp in Israel. We operate along four main strategic axes, each aimed at strengthening democratic norms and building civic infrastructure capable of resisting authoritarian erosion:
First, community engagement. We aim to establish a national grassroots infrastructure that reaches all citizens, not just to educate but to create a movement where every citizen becomes an active participant in the democratic process. By instilling the values of freedom, equality and participation, our network will help forge a more inclusive, enlightened and engaged society. The strategy to bridge this awareness gap involves interactive, community-based education that engages citizens in activism and action under shared values and the practical implications of democracy in their lives. This grassroots-level education aims to transform people from passive observers into informed, active participants in the democratic process, making the concept of democracy a palpable and indispensable part of their social and political landscape.
Second, work on the legislative and parliamentary frontline. Our legal and parliamentary teams work to monitor and counter legislative threats to Israeli democracy. We are present in Knesset committee meetings to track proposed bills that could harm minority representation, civil liberties, or the independence of the judiciary. We file petitions to the supreme court, draft alternative legislation, and provide legal counsel to our organisation and its partners. We also defend our movement against smear campaigns and threats to freedom of expression, helping ensure that civil society remains protected in both the judicial and public spheres.
Third, media and narrative strategy. We are harnessing the power of digital platforms and mass media to create and share content that highlights the importance of unity and critical thinking. By producing engaging digital content, we aim to captivate and educate a wide audience, maintaining their attention through strategic mass advertisements that amplify our unifying message. Furthermore, we will actively monitor and expose any malicious content that aims to mislead the public, sow discord, or undermine democratic values.
Finally, civic education and leadership development. Democracy is not self-sustaining. It requires citizens who understand its principles and are prepared to defend them. That is why we run educational programmes in gap-year academies, universities and local communities. Through workshops, lectures and grassroots dialogue, we empower young Israelis to become civic leaders. Our programmes reach students across the country and across the political spectrum, instilling democratic values and building long-term resilience against extremist ideologies.
In just two years, we have demonstrated our capacity for rapid mobilisation and national coordination. During the mass protests against the proposed judicial coup of 2023, for nine months, we drove hundreds of thousands of Israelis onto the streets to fight for democracy in Israel week in, week out. We built a nationwide force of supporters and the infrastructure to match, that successfully managed to slow the momentum. We put upholding equal rights for all Israelis firmly on the national agenda. And we halted the proposed judicial coup … for a while, at least.
In the aftermath of 7 October, we set aside an internal battle for an external one, pivoting in a matter of hours into a support infrastructure and assisting thousands of civilians and troops. We rescued over 12,000 civilians from communities under fire, distributed 500 tons of equipment, provided over half a million meals to evacuees, and found temporary homes for 12,000 families.
Our legal efforts have successfully delayed or blocked harmful legislation, and our field presence has deterred many attempts to advance anti-democratic laws. Our media campaigns have reached tens of millions of Israelis, changed the public discourse and provided clarity in a sea of noise. We work to replace fear and division with facts, hope and shared purpose.
We also believe that rebuilding is as vital as protecting. Through our Rebuilding Hope project, we’ve united thousands of volunteers and donors to restore shattered communities, such as Kibbutz Kfar Aza, the scene of horrific events on 7 October, and help displaced families in the north return home. By coming together to give, to help and to take responsibility, Israelis from all backgrounds are not only repairing what was destroyed, they’re stitching back together the very fabric of our society. This is what national renewal looks like: collective action driven by solidarity and hope.
Following the outbreak of the war with Iran, we mobilised rapidly to meet urgent needs on the ground, focusing on those most at risk. In close partnership with local authorities, we supported communities that lack access to proper protection, particularly the elderly, low-income families and children. From upgrading public bomb shelters with essential supplies to converting city parking garages into safe communal spaces, we are turning fear into preparedness. Our fast response reflects our deep commitment to stand with every Israeli in their time of need. These efforts took place in central, northern, and southern cities with a high population density, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Our mission is a big and bold one. It is also crucial to the future of the Jewish state as a resilient democracy. As military veterans, we know that despair is not a viable option. As men and women who have faced war, our strategy is rooted in a profound understanding of the core issues facing Israel today.
We understand the scale of the challenge. Preserving democracy is not just about opposing harmful laws or reacting to crises. It is about building systems and a culture that make democracy resilient from within. That is why we focus not only on defence but on construction – forging the future leaders, communities and public discourse Israel needs.
We strongly believe that the civil society is the most powerful force for change, and we will continue our fight until a government that truly represents the will of the Israeli people—who are ready to rebuild and heal the country—is elected.
Since our founding, we have stood to protect the State of Israel. We did so on 7 October, and we continue to do so today – with an unwavering commitment and deep love for our country.
Liat Shahaf Weiss is head of external relations at Brothers and Sisters In Arms
