Acting National Insurance CEO Sparks Outrage Over Autism Benefit Comments in Israel

Zvika Cohen, the acting CEO of Israel's National Insurance Institute, ignited controversy after remarks made at a professional conference in Jerusalem on Wednesday. Cohen suggested that the sharp rise in autism diagnoses among children is not solely due to better awareness and diagnosis but also driven by financial incentives from National Insurance disability benefits. He stated that autism now carries a high disability score and allowance, leading to a "crazy social change" where some parents openly admit to exploiting the system for additional income. Cohen warned that the number of autistic children is doubling every four years, a trend he described as alarming and not aligned with OECD statistics.

Cohen also criticized the current disability benefit structure, noting the lack of eligibility gradations for children on the autism spectrum, with all receiving full benefits. He mentioned that a joint team with the Ministry of Health is working on creating a tiered system. Additionally, he condemned the rise in private autism diagnoses, comparing it to abusing sick leave by falsifying medical excuses.

His comments provoked strong backlash from parents and lawmakers. MK Tali Gottlieb, mother of an autistic daughter, demanded Cohen's resignation, condemning his statement that "an autistic child is just another income." Another mother of two autistic children confronted Cohen during the event, accusing him of tarnishing families' reputations. Cohen responded by accusing her of seeking attention and emphasized that the benefits come from public funds.

The National Insurance Institute issued a statement defending its support for autistic children and their families, asserting that Cohen's remarks were taken out of context and intended to highlight the increasing demand for assistance. They also acknowledged investigations into fraudulent claims harming the broader population. The Institute reaffirmed its commitment to serving people with disabilities respectfully and protecting their rights against external attempts to reduce benefits.