Israel’s Defense Ministry revealed Tuesday that approximately 30,000 wounded men and women have entered its Rehabilitation Department since the October 7, 2023, Hamas massacre and the ensuing war, with nearly two-thirds suffering from psychological trauma.

The figures, released ahead of the war’s third anniversary, show that 47% of those admitted are age 30 or younger, 62% are reservists and 8% are women. According to the department, 37% are coping with physical injuries, while 63% are experiencing psychological reactions.

The department now serves 91,200 people wounded across Israel’s wars and military operations. Of those, approximately 42,500—about 46%—are coping with mental health conditions or post-traumatic stress. Officials project that the total caseload will reach approximately 100,000 by 2028, with half requiring mental health care.

Among those wounded in the current war, 63 have the most severe injuries and carry a disability classification of 100% or higher. Another 249 have complex head injuries, 29 have permanent blindness or visual impairment, and 106 have lost limbs.

The ministry said 95% of the amputees have been fitted with advanced prosthetics, including adaptations supporting recreational activities and extreme sports.

The growing needs have prompted a major overhaul of the rehabilitation system. In July, the government approved recommendations from a public committee headed by Professor Mor Yosef, and the Defense Ministry has begun implementing them.

The changes center on transforming the department into a national authority for the rehabilitation and treatment of wounded IDF soldiers and security personnel. Recommendations include assigning each wounded person a personal contact, simplifying recognition and disability-assessment procedures, encouraging employment that supports rehabilitation, and establishing a long-term residential facility for people with severe head injuries. The plan also calls for tailored assistance for lone soldiers and wounded women.

The department’s budget has increased by 88% over three years to NIS 10 billion, with more than 60% allocated to mental health and post-traumatic stress services.

During the past year, approximately 171,000 complementary therapy sessions were provided, and the “One Soul” assistance hotline received roughly 16,500 calls. The department also has 470 emotional support dogs assisting patients, with another 330 undergoing training.

Mental health staffing and treatment services have expanded substantially since the war began, with approximately 2,300 therapists now involved. An emergency mobile unit and crisis team have responded to more than 500 incidents involving acute psychological distress. Rehabilitation farms and community-based alternatives to psychiatric hospitalization have also been established.

The department is additionally supporting a return to education and employment. Since the war began, 2,425 wounded men and women have received assistance and full funding for academic or vocational studies. Law, business administration and computer science are the most popular degree programs.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)