Full Breakdown
Gaps in Support for Israeli Combat Veterans with PTSD
2/17/2026, 10:44:24 PM
Overview of the Situation
A recent session of the Knesset Health Committee highlighted significant deficiencies in the support provided to families of Israeli combat veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). A survey conducted among 379 families revealed alarming statistics regarding their therapeutic, economic, and emotional challenges.
Key Findings from the Survey
The survey findings indicated that 51% of families were unaware of their rights related to PTSD support, while 55% reported receiving no treatment at all. Psychological counseling was accessed by only 36% of families. The emotional toll on family members was profound, with 89% experiencing anxiety and ongoing stress, 68% suffering from sleep disorders, and 65% reporting feelings of loneliness and helplessness. Notably, children under seven years old with a parent who is a combat veteran with PTSD are ineligible for treatment, and 94% of these children exhibit behavioral difficulties or aggression.
Current Challenges in Mental Health Support
The Defense Ministry acknowledged a shortage of therapists available to assist combat veterans, particularly following the recent conflict in Gaza. Limor Son Har-Melech, chair of the Knesset Health Committee, emphasized the pervasive impact of PTSD, stating, “Post-trauma is not an injury of one person — it enters the home, is present in the living room, and affects the children and spouses. These families are the true fighters on the home front.”
Rising Suicide Rates Among Combat Veterans
The report also revealed that combat soldiers accounted for 78% of military suicides in Israel in 2024, a significant increase from previous years. Alarmingly, only 17% of these soldiers had consulted a mental health professional in the two months leading up to their deaths. MK Pnina Tamano-Shata raised concerns about the release of soldiers and police officers from service without adequate support frameworks.
Criticism of Budget Allocation
Dr. Rotem Sivan, chair of the Israel Health Forum, faced removal from the discussion after criticizing the Defense Ministry for allegedly redirecting budget funds intended for combat veterans to Yeshivot and other populations that do not serve in the military. She asserted, “I am the mother of an IDF soldier. His friends are coping with daily hardships from the war, and no one opens their mouth about the budgets directed specifically to populations that do not serve in the army — and when you tell the truth, you are removed from the committee.”
Official Responses and Future Directions
In response to the growing need for mental health services, Hila Yavnai Tal, director of social services at Sabar Health – Home Hospitalization, informed lawmakers that the Defense Ministry’s Rehabilitation Department has initiated a tender to expand mental health services. This initiative aims to develop hospitalization alternatives for individuals struggling with PTSD, facilitated by a multidisciplinary team specializing in mental health.
Conclusion
The findings from the Knesset Health Committee session underscore the urgent need for improved support systems for combat veterans and their families affected by PTSD. Without a significant increase in funding and resources, the challenges faced by these families are unlikely to be adequately addressed.
