Only One in Four Terror Attack Victims Return to Full Work Capacity Since October 7 Assaults
A new survey presented on Sunday at the "How Do We Lead Rehabilitation Together? National and Mental Resilience Amid War" conference by the 121 Association reveals a troubling picture for victims of terror attacks since the October 7 assault. Among 145 respondents from the "Light on the Horizon" partnership, only 27% have returned to their pre-war work capacity, 34% resumed work partially, and 35% are currently not working at all. The survey highlights severe economic consequences, with nearly 62% reporting worsened financial conditions despite receiving state benefits, and over a third stating a close family member had to reduce work hours to provide care.
The survey also exposes a widespread feeling of abandonment by the state, as about two-thirds of victims reported lacking continuous and consistent rehabilitation support. The data was shared at a Tel Aviv conference organized by "Light on the Horizon" and "Hope for the Soul," both initiatives of the 121 Association. Attendees included Knesset members, party representatives, professionals, civil society organizations, victims, and their families, aiming to push for policy changes in rehabilitation and mental health ahead of the next government.
Key issues raised included shifting from a disability percentage-based model to one focused on rehabilitation and functional recovery. MK Michal Waldiger of the Religious Zionism party criticized medical committees for being "anti-rehabilitation," emphasizing the need to tailor personal rehabilitation paths rather than focusing solely on injury severity. Liran Abishar Ben-Horin from the "Together" party called for a preventive mental health approach in workplaces, with designated mental health officers to identify and assist employees early.
Inbar Yehezkeli Belilos of the "Yesh" party advocated expanding recognition to those psychologically affected by real-time exposure to terror events via phones or videos, even if not physically present. 121 Association CEO Liat Ilam summarized that Israel must adapt to the new reality created by the war, moving from proving disability to prioritizing rehabilitation and community-wide mental health resilience.
Personal testimonies underscored these challenges. Roni Katz, mother of Arad Katz who survived the Nova massacre, shared her struggle of leaving work to care for her son without state support. Survivor Ron Segev described his inability to return to previous work levels due to only temporary disability recognition, with a permanent decision expected only in 2027, leaving him without adequate rehabilitation services for a year. He called for individualized rehabilitation plans focused on restoring function and life, not just disability percentages.
