18,500+ Israeli soldiers wounded since Oct. 7, thousands with PTSD

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen English + Israeli Media
27 Jul 2025 19:48

A report by Yedioth Ahronoth reveals over 18,500 Israeli soldiers wounded since October 2023, with projections reaching 100,000 by 2028 amid a growing mental health crisis.

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IOF carry the coffin of Israeli reserve soldier Sergeant First Class, who was killed in a battle in the Gaza Strip, during his funeral at the military cemetery in Haifa, occupied Palestine, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP)

The number of wounded Israeli soldiers since October 7, 2023, has surpassed 18,500, with thousands suffering from severe psychological trauma, according to a report by Yedioth Ahronoth. Projections suggest that the number of wounded could reach 100,000 by 2028.

Citing data from the Israeli Ministry of Security, the report notes that many of these soldiers have not only left military service but also exited the labor market. This dual absence signals a broader impact on the Israeli economy and society.

The report warns that nearly half of the soldiers expected to be injured in the coming years will suffer from mental health issues, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The growing number of cases has triggered an urgent reassessment of mental health systems, budgets, and treatment strategies.

Yedioth Ahronoth added that what was once projected for 2030 is now anticipated by 2028 due to the sharp rise in psychological cases. This acceleration has led authorities to revise their healthcare planning to cope with the crisis.

Israeli soldier killed, nine wounded in Khan Younis operation

Earlier today, Israeli media reported that one soldier from the Israeli occupation forces was killed and at least nine others wounded, including three in critical condition, in what was described as a "security incident" in Khan Younis, south of the Gaza Strip.

Among the wounded were members of the Israeli occupation’s Desert Reconnaissance Unit. According to reports, three soldiers sustained life-threatening injuries, while four others were said to be in serious condition.

The Israeli military confirmed that a senior officer and another soldier from the reconnaissance unit were severely injured during the operation in southern Gaza.

This incident follows an earlier announcement by the Israeli occupation military regarding the deaths of two personnel on Saturday, a combat engineer and a soldier from the elite Golani Brigade, also during operations in southern Gaza.

"Israel's" extensive and failed wars on Gaza and Lebanon have both skyrocketed army casualties. Amid the ongoing war in Gaza, the Palestinian Resistance continues carrying out significant operations and complex ambushes.