Israeli Parliament Passes Historic Bill Granting Official Status to Combat Veterans with PTSD

The Knesset committee approved a groundbreaking bill that formally defines combat veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) within Israeli law for the first time. The legislation, expected to pass its second and third readings this week, will regulate their status, expand their rights, and provide dedicated treatment and rehabilitation services through the Ministry of Defense's Rehabilitation Department. The bill also extends benefits and support to the families of these veterans.

The initiative emerged during discussions on the Basic Law on Torah Study but was later incorporated as an amendment to the Disabilities Law, reflecting cooperation between coalition and opposition members. Committee representatives emphasized the need to adapt to Israel's complex security reality and to offer tailored care to thousands of veterans affected during their service.

Michal Waldiger, chair of the Labor and Welfare Committee, highlighted the bill's significance, stating that combat veterans deserve personalized care and optimal rehabilitation for themselves and their families, whose lives have been profoundly impacted. Natanel Shaked, a leader of the Combat Veterans Forum, thanked MK Moshe Abutbul and the Shas party for their support, calling the bill historic as it grants official legal recognition and expands rights and assistance after years of relying mainly on administrative decisions.

If approved by the full Knesset, Israel will become the first country to explicitly enshrine the status of combat veterans with PTSD in law, marking a major advancement in veterans' welfare.