Government approves critical reform to help with spike in wounded, traumatized soldiers

The Israeli government has approved a significant reform to address the surge in wounded and traumatized soldiers, including an estimated 50,000 trauma cases. This reform, based on recommendations from a committee led by Prof. Shlomo Mor-Yosef, aims to streamline support for soldiers, with a projected 100,000 wounded by 2028. Key changes include establishing a new, independent authority with its own budget to expedite treatment and benefits, increasing the budget from NIS 5 billion to NIS 10 billion for 2023-2026, and an additional NIS 2 billion annually, plus a one-time NIS 500 million investment for the new authority. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the program "will remove red tape, shorten waiting periods, widen responses and ensure that each person will be able to rapidly maximize their rights." The reform also emphasizes increased funding for weekly emotional trauma visits, individualized services, and the creation of specialized clinics for former soldiers. Notably, since 2023, emotional trauma accounts for nearly 50% of new claims, a significant increase from past wars. The Defense Ministry will also leverage digital processes and AI to accelerate recognition and treatment, including using AI to improve mental health operations and reduce administrative burdens for professionals.