Iranian Missile Strike Injures Hospitalized Be'er Sheva Man Recognized as Terror Victim

A 37-year-old resident of Be'er Sheva, identified as B., was hospitalized in Soroka Medical Center's internal medicine department when an Iranian missile struck the area, causing extensive damage. According to a recent lawsuit filed on his behalf, B. was admitted for liver issues and was under medication when the missile exploded nearby, resulting in shrapnel injuries to both legs. He was treated and discharged but subsequently developed severe pain, numbness, burning sensations in his legs, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and flashbacks related to the traumatic event.

B. independently sought recognition as a victim of hostile actions from the National Insurance Institute, despite a prior medical and psychological history including back pain, spinal issues, and brief mental health treatment for anxiety. Initial medical committee assessments deemed his leg injuries superficial with no orthopedic disability, though later nerve conduction tests revealed nerve damage, sparking medical disputes over whether symptoms stemmed from the missile incident or preexisting conditions.

Following a low temporary disability rating and minimal compensation, B. engaged attorney Michaela Dimartz to appeal. Additional medical evidence was submitted, leading to a 10% permanent disability recognition for scarring from shrapnel wounds. A psychiatric committee acknowledged B.'s post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis, linking his mental health decline to the missile strike, and granted a 25% temporary mental disability until May 2027.

In May 2026, B. received retroactive payments totaling 43,981 shekels for ten months, with ongoing monthly payments expected. The permanent disability grant for physical scars entitles him to an additional lump sum of approximately 62,000 shekels. Future evaluations will determine if permanent mental disability benefits apply, potentially increasing his compensation. Attorney Dimartz emphasized that prior medical conditions do not preclude recognition of new or worsened injuries caused by hostile acts, underscoring the importance of thorough assessment in such cases.