Grieving Grandparents Overlooked in Israel's Support for Bereaved Families

While Israel has expanded recognition and support for bereaved families since the October 7th attacks, grandparents who have lost grandchildren remain largely unrecognized and unsupported by the state. The article highlights that the pain of losing a child is immense, but for grandparents, this grief is compounded as they mourn their child's loss and their grandchild's death, often while also needing support themselves due to age or health issues.

Recent legislative efforts have acknowledged extended family members of fallen soldiers. In 2022, a law recognizing the rights of bereaved siblings was passed. In March 2024, legislation was approved for fiancés and fiancées of IDF soldiers, granting them financial and rehabilitative rights. A significant amendment in January 2026 expanded benefits for parents, widows, and orphans. These steps reflect an understanding that the impact of loss extends beyond immediate parents and children, necessitating broader support systems.

However, the term "bereaved grandparents" is not legally defined in Israel. Existing legislation, such as the Legal Capacity and Guardianship Law from 1962, addresses their connection to minor grandchildren, particularly after the Yom Kippur War and later expanded in 2012. These provisions primarily focus on maintaining contact with grandchildren and do not offer grandparents a framework of rights, assistance, or rehabilitation following their own profound loss.

The ongoing conflict and the scale of loss since October 7th underscore the need to expand support circles. The article argues that society has a duty to care for the well-being of bereaved grandparents, acknowledge their contributions, and alleviate their loneliness and pain. It emphasizes that they too have paid a heavy price for Israel's security, and their loss significantly impacts their lives and health without receiving adequate attention.

Recommended support includes emotional assistance like support groups and therapy, easier access to physical aid through nursing laws or community programs, transportation for memorial day visits, and age-appropriate benefits such as discounts on medical treatments and medications. Special attention should be given to vulnerable elderly individuals, including additional discounts on municipal taxes, electricity, and water for those receiving income support. The article concludes that bereaved grandparents often do not allow themselves to take up space, a significant part of their struggle, and their unexpressed grief can lead to physical health deterioration. It calls for the state and society to recognize their distress and provide the support and rights they deserve, moving them from behind the scenes to receive the acknowledgment they are due.