The Israeli website Friends of Israel Disabled Veterans (FIDV) confirmed on Wednesday that more than 6,000 disabled soldiers from the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) have been added to the organization.

According to FIDV, these soldiers suffer from physical disabilities, while an estimated 10,000 more are expected to be officially recognized as suffering from psychological disabilities, primarily post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The website also reported that the total number of wounded Israeli soldiers and security personnel has surpassed 14,700 since the beginning of the war on Gaza and Lebanon. It cited the Israeli ministries of security and health, which noted that more than 4,700 wounded personnel are currently in the process of being recognized as disabled by the Ministry of Security (FIDV).

Rising numbers and rehabilitation needs

New data from the Israeli Ministry of Security's Rehabilitation Department reveals that since October 7, 2023, approximately 12,000 soldiers and security personnel have been admitted for rehabilitation. Of these, around 8,500 (66%) are dealing with physical injuries, while 5,200 (43%) have developed mental health conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression, as reported by the Jerusalem Post.

Demographic analysis further shows that 93% of the wounded are men, 66% are reservists, and over half (51%) are aged 18-30. The war has led to a threefold increase in the number of wounded individuals under 30, highlighting the toll on younger soldiers.

Surge in demand for rehabilitation services

To address the rising number of injured personnel, 4,500 wounded soldiers have joined Beit Halochem, a network of rehabilitation centers for disabled veterans, according to FIDV. These centers, which operate under the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization (ZDVO), provide medical treatment, sports therapy, educational programs, and family support services to help disabled veterans recover (FIDV).

According to the Times of Israel, Beit Halochem has seen a surge in demand, with over 15,000 members actively participating in programs at its centers in Tel Aviv, Haifa, occupied al-Quds, and Beer Sheva. Additionally, more than 8,000 rehabilitation visits have been organized for injured soldiers across the occupied territories, FIDV reported.

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The growing number of disabled soldiers has placed significant pressure on support organizations, increasing the demand for funding, medical personnel, and long-term psychological care.