Israel's Defense Ministry Rehabilitation Wing Reports 30,000 Wounded Since Oct. 7

Israel's Ministry of Defense Rehabilitation Wing has released comprehensive data indicating that approximately 30,000 soldiers and security forces personnel have been processed since the October 7th attacks. The figures reveal a complex situation where about 63% of the war's wounded are dealing with mental health responses and post-traumatic stress, while 37% have sustained physical injuries. Currently, the wing is managing 91,200 disabled veterans from all branches of the Israeli security systems, with 42,500 recognized as having mental health challenges. Projections suggest this number could reach 100,000 by 2028.

The breakdown of casualties highlights the significant toll on Israeli society: 62% of the wounded are reservists, 47% are under 30 years old, and 8% are women. Among the injured are 63 soldiers with severe disabilities rated at 100% or more, 249 with complex head injuries, and 106 amputees who have largely been fitted with advanced prosthetics. Additionally, 29 individuals have permanently lost their sight. These unprecedented injury levels present a long-term medical and rehabilitation challenge for the defense establishment.

In response to the dramatic increase in casualties, the Ministry of Defense has begun implementing a government decision from July. Key changes include transforming the wing into the "National Authority for Rehabilitation and Treatment of IDF and Security Forces Casualties," appointing a personal liaison for each wounded individual, simplifying recognition procedures for medical committees, establishing a "House of Life" for severe head injury patients, and providing tailored solutions for lone soldiers.

Alongside structural reforms, support for returning to civilian life has been expanded, with over 2,400 wounded individuals receiving full funding for vocational and academic studies, including law and business administration. The wing's budget has surged by 88% over the past three years, reaching 10 billion shekels, with over 60% allocated to mental health services. The treatment system has tripled its staff to approximately 2,300 professionals and operates community-based alternatives like "balancing homes," rehabilitation farms, and emergency mental health teams deployed to hundreds of distress incidents. A dedicated mental health support line, "Nefesh Achat," is available 24/7 for casualties and their families.