What's Happening?
Reservists and active-duty soldiers from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) who served in casualty identification units have reported a lack of mental health support following their service. These soldiers, many of whom are students from hesder yeshivas,
participated in identifying war casualties at the Shura military base. Despite their involvement in emotionally taxing duties, they are not receiving adequate mental health care due to their status as unpaid service members. The Knesset Labor and Welfare Committee discussed the issue, revealing that soldiers who served less than 45 days are not eligible for combat-soldier benefits or resilience programs. Former military personnel and current soldiers have expressed the need for a structured support system to help them cope with the psychological impact of their service.
Why It's Important?
The lack of mental health support for these soldiers highlights a significant gap in the care provided to military personnel who perform critical and traumatic roles. This situation underscores the need for comprehensive mental health services for all soldiers, regardless of their service duration or status. The issue has broader implications for military policy and the well-being of soldiers, potentially affecting their reintegration into civilian life and long-term mental health. Addressing these gaps is crucial for maintaining the morale and effectiveness of military forces and ensuring that those who serve are adequately supported.
What's Next?
The Knesset Labor and Welfare Committee is expected to consider changes to eligibility criteria for mental health programs, potentially including hesder soldiers in the Amit Program and revisiting the 45-day service requirement for resilience programs. There may be increased pressure on the IDF and the Israeli government to provide more comprehensive mental health support to all soldiers, including those in unpaid service periods. The outcome of these discussions could lead to policy changes that better address the mental health needs of military personnel.
