A 19-year-old Brazilian man, Tarcisio Gomes Pereira, has travelled over 6,000 miles from his home to join the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Pereira was raised in a deeply religious Christian family in Brazil, but he felt a calling to fight for Israel. His decision to enlist in the IDF came after studying the Torah and the history of Israel.
Pereira's journey to Israel came about following a meeting with a Jewish Brazilian woman, Adva Biton, who is an advocate for strengthening ties between Christians and Jews worldwide. Biton encouraged Pereira to consider joining the IDF, and it was through her guidance that he travelled to Israel and enlisted with the IDF, becoming a combat soldier in the Golani Brigade, one of the most decorated infantry units in the IDF.
The decision to join the IDF, however, is not without its risks. Pereira is well aware of the dangers he faces, as tensions in the Middle East are high, with conflicts in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. Despite these challenges, Pereira has expressed his determination and commitment to serving Israel.
His decision to join the IDF has been met with mixed reactions in Brazil, with some questioning his commitment to his home country. However, Pereira insists that he does not feel torn between two countries, stating that "I am doing something that is important to me. I am not doing this because I hate Arabs or Muslims. I am doing this because I believe in the cause."
Despite the potential dangers he faces, Pereira has expressed his deep faith and belief in his cause. He is part of a growing number of young people from around the world who feel a calling to serve Israel, and his story serves as an inspiring example of dedication and commitment to a cause.