1000 Israeli soldiers refuse to fight in Gaza amid mental health strain

Web Desk | 10 months ago

Tel Aviv – Thousands of Israeli soldiers have reportedly refused to continue fighting in Gaza due to the mental strain caused by the prolonged conflict. Israeli media sources indicate a disturbing rise in mental health issues among military personnel, with reports of increased suicides and complaints of psychological stress.

An official statement from the Israeli military spokesperson confirmed that a significant number of soldiers have stepped back from their combat duties, citing mental health reasons. The spokesperson also highlighted a troubling surge in suicides among soldiers, making mental health concerns a critical issue within the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF).

The military has released new data on suicides within the IDF, revealing that in 2024, 21 soldiers took their own lives, compared to 17 in 2023. Since 2011, suicide has become the second leading cause of death among Israeli soldiers, after combat fatalities.

Last year, those who committed suicide included 12 reserve soldiers, seven conscripts, and two career military personnel. In comparison, 807 soldiers were killed in operations against Palestinians over the past two years.

Under Israeli law, all citizens are required to serve in the military for two years, and in times of war, every Israeli citizen is expected to serve on the front lines. Refusing to participate in combat can lead to imprisonment, further intensifying the pressures soldiers face in such an environment.

The alarming rise in mental health issues within the military forces raises concerns over the long-term impact of the ongoing conflict on the well-being of Israeli troops.