Young Aussie ready to join Israel Defence Forces

At just 28 years old, not many of us can imagine being told to pack your bags and get ready to fight.

But Mai Gutman has been told just that.

She was born in Israel but moved to Melbourne when she was 18 months old. Her family is still here.

READ MORE: Aussies describe harrowing Israel experiences

As the Israeli-Hamas war intensifies, most people are scrambling to get out, but Mai isn't like most people.

She's ready to face the conflict head-on as a reservist with the Israeli Defence Forces.

Mai said if she doesn't risk losing her life, she risks losing her country.

"The past few days have been unlike any other we've experienced in Israel before," she told A Current Affair, from Israel.

"We are mostly in shock, in utter disbelief at what's happening at the occurrences, at the footage and the incidents."

Mai woke up to the sound of red alert sirens in Jerusalem on Saturday morning.

She was with her family for a Sabbath day when she decided to check her phone.

"We had to quickly see what was happening on the news," she said.

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Mai was meant to attend the Supernova music festival but she pulled out at the last minute.

In a text message group, her friends sent pleas for help.

"Help me, I'm hurt. I don't know what to do. Please call the police. Please call the army," she said.

Hundreds lost their lives and others were taken hostage.

"Absolutely horrifying images, I can't even put them into words," Mai said.

"Since then, everyone is either been glued to the TV or has already been called up to their reserves duty."

Now, Mai is on standby, waiting to be called up to serve.

"We have a protocol if you're ever sent into combat, you write a letter. I don't need to tell you what that letter might say, you can imagine," she said.

She's risking her life for the country she loves and her family are worried about her.

"(Mum and Dad) I love you all and I'm thinking of you all," Mai said.

Watch the video above to hear more of Mai Gutman's story.