The government approved a new long-term rehabilitation plan on Sunday for survivors of the Nova and other southern music festivals attacked on October 7, allocating about 60 million shekels for 2026 through 2028 as part of what it described as a continued commitment to accompany survivors through the next stage of recovery.

The plan was formulated under the Prime Minister’s Office following a broad inter-ministerial review that included data analysis, public participation, and discussions with survivors, family members and professional officials. According to the data presented, about 3,600 festival survivors have been recognized as victims of hostile acts, with injury and disability rates indicating long-term consequences that require continued tailored support.

Under the decision, the government approved an expanded support framework meant to provide long-term therapeutic, rehabilitative and employment continuity for thousands of survivors and their families. The plan is designed to adapt the state response to the current phase of recovery, after the initial assistance provided in the aftermath of the October 7 massacre created a first layer of support.

The main elements of the decision include the creation of a personal accompaniment system for survivors through what the government described as “one governmental address,” aimed at helping survivors navigate benefits and coordinate care between different agencies. The plan also expands support for family members and includes the development of dedicated prevention and intervention programs dealing with the use of addictive substances among festival survivors.

In addition, the plan includes broader medical and mental health support, improved access to emergency mental health services for survivors and their relatives, and efforts to strengthen continuity of care through tailored physical and mental health services and coordinated case management.

Beyond the medical and emotional response, the program also includes the development of tailored rehabilitation and employment integration tracks through the Labor Ministry, the Employment Service and the National Insurance Institute. As part of the decision, the government will continue developing a digital system designed to coordinate between agencies, help survivors maximize their rights and maintain updated case information.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)