Rising army suicides spark Israeli lawmakers’ alarm

In Israel, lawmakers have begun addressing a troubling increase in suicides among military personnel, especially reservists, amidst a recognized mental health crisis within the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The legislative subcommittee met to evaluate the alarming statistics, revealing that as of August 2025, 16 soldiers have taken their lives, significantly affecting both active duty and reservist members following the October 7 attack by Hamas. The increase in suicides raises concerns regarding the psychological burdens faced by soldiers, particularly those who have recently been involved in combat scenarios, compounded by insufficient access to mental health resources. Emotional testimonies were given, including one from Neta Dagan, whose twin brother Maj. Assaf Dagan had killed himself after expressing suicidal thoughts to his commanding officer. Experts and officials acknowledged the inadequacies in mental health support within the military, emphasizing that soldiers frequently encounter long wait times for treatment and lack sufficient access to psychological care, which has been a persistent issue that has worsened since the beginning of the current conflict. Mental health support initiatives have been expanded, with the IDF attempting to address these gaps by opening 24/7 hotlines, increasing the availability of PTSD units, and implementing resilience programs for soldiers returning from combat. Despite these efforts, the threat of increasing trauma persists. Legislators, including Keti Shitrit of the Likud party, have called for unequivocal transparency and the establishment of a dedicated committee to oversee and support the mental health needs of soldiers. They voiced the urgent need for effective solutions, highlighting the moral obligation to care for the well-being of service members. Looking forward, military health professionals are engaging in discussions about the psychological impact of rigorous military service. The significant rise of PTSD among soldiers, reportedly tripling since the war escalated, points to the critical need for continued support structures within the IDF. With recent military operations leading to severe emotional trauma, especially for reservists who endure prolonged service periods, the situation continues to raise alarm bells within the army, emphasizing that mental health conditions require immediate, effective attention. As Israel grapples with these growing challenges, the implications for servicemen's mental health remain a priority for lawmakers and military officials alike.