WATCH: Monaliza Abdo is Arab, Christian, Israeli and a brave defender of Jews and minorities alike. She wasn’t required to enlist in the Israeli army, but her determination to protect Israel motivated her to volunteer.

As a fighter on Israel’s southern border, she rose through the ranks to become a commander, teaching soldiers how to combat terrorism and other threats. Just over a month ago, she honorably completed three years of service – one more than the required number for Israeli women.

We had the chance to join Monaliza on the day of her release from the IDF. In this video, she speaks to us entirely in Arabic, explaining her commitment to serve the State of Israel and protect all of its citizens. “I keep the country of Israel safe, not only for the Jews but for the Arabs, too,” she says. “I came [to the IDF] to serve my country and my home.”