The number of Israeli soldiers seeking psychological help has surged sixfold since the onset of Operation "Al-Aqsa Storm" on October 7, 2023, according to a report by the Israeli newspaper "Haaretz." The report highlights a worrying increase in mental health issues within the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), with a notable rise in suicide ideation among soldiers.
Over the past nine months, the number of soldiers contemplating or threatening suicide has increased by 145 percent. Currently, more than 1,000 Israeli reservists are receiving mental health services, with over 2,000 individuals having utilized these services to date. Haaretz also noted that the mental health crisis is not confined to the soldiers alone but has also affected their families.
Impact on Military Personnel and Readiness
A report by Israeli television channel "Kan" emphasized the strain on the Israeli military due to the prolonged conflict in Gaza. The report revealed that 900 officers, holding the ranks of captain and major, have requested to leave the army this year. This figure is a stark increase from the usual 100 to 120 annual requests in previous years. The significant rise in withdrawal requests is seen as a crisis not only for the military but for the broader Israeli regime, raising concerns about the army's ability to maintain its operational effectiveness.
Casualties and Conflict Escalation
The ongoing conflict has resulted in substantial casualties on both sides. The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza reported that 70 Palestinians were killed, and over 200 were injured in recent attacks by the Israeli army in Khan Yunis. Additional reports from medical sources in Gaza indicate that 16 Palestinians died in airstrikes on Gaza City and Jabalia. These attacks followed claims by Israeli intelligence agencies that Hamas had resumed military activities in these areas.
Daniel Hagari, a spokesperson for the Israeli army, acknowledged that 683 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the beginning of the war against Gaza. However, some sources suggest that the actual number of Israeli casualties may be higher than the official figures.
Broader Impact on Palestinian Population
The conflict has had a devastating impact on the Palestinian population. Since October 7, 2023, 39,066 Palestinian citizens have been reported killed, with 89,818 injured, according to the latest statistics. The ongoing violence and high casualty rates underscore the severe humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
The mental health crisis among Israeli soldiers, coupled with the rising number of casualties, reflects the profound and far-reaching consequences of the prolonged conflict in Gaza. As the situation continues to deteriorate, the need for a resolution that addresses the safety and well-being of all affected individuals becomes increasingly urgent.
