Defense Ministry calls surge in wounded soldiers ‘top-tier national challenge’

In response to a labor dispute declared at its Rehabilitation Department today, the Defense Ministry says the surge in wounded IDF and security personnel since Hamas’s October 7, 2023, onslaught constitutes a “top-tier national challenge,” adding that rehabilitation is at the core of its strategy.

The ministry says it has taken steps since the start of the war to bolster the department, including adding some 130 positions to its workforce, doubling its budget, establishing customer relations units nationwide to assist wounded veterans in accessing services, and expanding the range of support offered.

It acknowledges, however, that demand is expected to continue rising, with the number of patients projected to reach around 100,000 by 2028. The Rehabilitation Department, which is responsible for reintegrating injured IDF veterans and security personnel into civilian life by providing them with social services and financial support, currently treats some 82,000 people.

Accordingly, the ministry says Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have appointed a joint public committee to examine expanding the national response to wounded IDF veterans, including additional staffing and resources for the Rehabilitation Department. The committee is expected to present its recommendations within three months.

The ministry adds that it recognizes the heavy burden placed on its employees and is working to strengthen resources and support staff, amid warnings by the Histadrut labor federation that workers could take action within two weeks if no solution is reached.