The Disabled Veterans Organization of Israel responded to a report about remarks made in an internal conversation, saying they were aimed at a specific small group that has allegedly worked against the organization, including threats, harassment, and personal incitement. The group said the comments were not directed at shell-shocked veterans, PTSD sufferers, or any other class of Israel Defense Forces disabled veterans, and added that it regrets if anyone felt hurt or interpreted them differently.
The organization, led by attorney Idan Kaliman, who was severely wounded in combat, said it continues to work for all disabled veterans, including tens of thousands with post-traumatic stress, and pointed to what it described as unprecedented achievements. It said it has advanced dozens of rehabilitation programs, implemented the Mor-Yosef Committee recommendations and the One Soul reform, created a dedicated trauma division, and is leading construction of the fifth Beit Halochem rehabilitation center, which it says will be one of Israel’s largest.
The organization also rejected claims that a 2021 agreement was secret, saying it was part of the One Soul reform and was published on its website, with benefits and support for PTSD-disabled veterans. It likewise denied opposing a cap on legal fees, saying records and protocols show it supported and helped found the proposal so rehabilitation and compensation funds would reach wounded soldiers and veterans. The statement ended by criticizing selective recordings and partial reporting.
The Defense Ministry said rehabilitation of disabled IDF veterans is a top national mission. Since October 7, it said, the rehabilitation division has handled about 25,000 new wounded, most with psychological distress, and its budget was doubled to about 10 billion shekels, with half devoted to mental-health support. It said the number of therapists quadrupled and new services were created, including nature-based rehabilitation farms, mental emergency teams, and halfway houses. With forecasts of 100,000 wounded by 2028, the ministry said it and the Finance Ministry launched the Mor-Yosef Committee with the Disabled Veterans Organization and are now seeking cabinet approval for its recommendations.
