IDF Promises Policy Overhaul for Reservists with Mental Health Disabilities Following Criticism

The IDF's Subcommittee on Human Resources, led by MK Elazar Stern, held a discussion on Monday addressing the policy of temporarily or permanently suspending reservists recognized with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The IDF acknowledged that under the previous procedure, medical information was shared with unit personnel handling the cases, but under the new policy, only a limited number of medical staff will have access to such information to better protect privacy.

The controversial policy required reservists with over 30% mental disability to meet with a unit mental health officer to determine their fitness for active service or removal from the reserve roster. This sparked criticism from reservists, some of whom reported receiving notifications about service termination in inappropriate circumstances, such as en route to Gaza. Concerns were also raised that soldiers might conceal their medical conditions to avoid discharge.

Brigadier General Amir Vadmani, head of the IDF manpower division, stated the IDF is revising the suspension procedure to allow greater flexibility without relying on service freezes. The new approach will simplify the process, reduce bureaucracy, and restrict medical information access to a few medical professionals. The committee also discussed the fear among soldiers of seeking recognition or treatment due to potential negative impacts on their military careers.

The committee received updates on the implementation of resilience programs for personnel involved in casualty care and their families, as well as efforts to proactively identify those in distress. Oren Paz, a former ZAKA volunteer, shared his prolonged struggle for recognition and treatment, emphasizing the lack of support for volunteers exposed to trauma.

Colonel (res.) Eyal Mordoch, commander of the casualty care system, highlighted the soldiers’ feelings of abandonment after active service ends, noting many avoid seeking help due to stigma and fear of repercussions. The IDF confirmed ongoing efforts to expand recognition and support for those involved in casualty care, including a government proposal to formalize mental health assistance for reservists in these roles.

MK Stern concluded that significant disparities remain in treatment between ZAKA volunteers and security personnel, promising continued oversight to ensure improvements. Despite the IDF’s claims that notifications about service status are carefully handled, some reservists reported receiving abrupt calls without explanation. The initial policy led to the transfer of sensitive mental health data from the rehabilitation department to manpower, raising privacy concerns. Following backlash, the IDF temporarily froze the suspension process, but it was briefly reinstated during Operation Roaring Lion.