Katz says Defense Ministry is working to boost support for IDF widows and orphans

Defense Minister Israel Katz meets with Zehava Gross Meydan, chair of the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization, and the group’s CEO Shlomi Nahumson, to discuss new measures aimed at improving support for bereaved families, the Defense Ministry says.

In the meeting, Katz stresses the ministry’s commitment to widows and orphans of IDF and security personnel, outlining ongoing efforts led by Aryeh Moalem, head of the department for the families of fallen soldiers, commemoration and heritage, to enhance their welfare. These efforts include advancing broad legislation in coordination with the Finance Ministry.

The IDF Widows and Orphans Organization, a nonprofit that supports widows and orphans of Israeli servicemen, reaffirms its position that all IDF orphans must receive equal treatment, regardless of age. In general, IDF orphans receive government benefits only until the age of 18, while the organization itself extends its services and support to orphans from birth through age 30.

Katz notes that the proposed legislation marks both a correction of “historic injustices” and a substantial expansion of benefits. He stresses the need to move the bill forward “hand in hand” in order to achieve the necessary breakthrough.

Alongside monthly stipends, Katz and the organization’s leadership also discussed additional support options, including municipal tax reductions and preferential terms for purchasing real estate.