A question regarding Jizya in Islam

[The Turbanator]

A common criticism for Islam is that it has a special tax system called "Jizya" that is applied to Non Muslims. I have talked to some Muslims who in defense of Islam have said that in an Islamic state all men must serve in the Military and that if non Muslims choose to pay Jizya they are exempt from military service. They also said that women, children, elders, handicapped, the ill, the insane, monks, hermits, slaves are also exempt from Jizya. My question is Simple: Is this true? and if so will it weaken the argument against Jizya?

[brimstoneSalad]

Muslims are required to give 2.5% of their income to the mosque as Zakat, which is part of the state in Islamic countries. It's an alternative tax as far as I know, but it depends on how it's implemented and the amounts.
The fact that a significant part may go to the Mosques in either case is probably only as relevant as state supported religions in "Christian" countries, as in many parts of Europe.

[Mateo3112]

Even if it were true, it's not an excuse. You're baaically forcing people to pay that way, because no one wants to serve in the military.