Israeli Psychotherapist Warns Economic Incentives May Shift Reservists’ Priorities Away From National Duty

Israeli psychotherapist Yuval Levinger highlights concerns about the impact of financial rewards on the priorities of reservists serving in the ongoing conflict, urging that national mission remain paramount. Levinger acknowledges the immense respect for reservists who have been serving for nearly three years under harsh conditions, including extended deployments and personal sacrifices. However, he notes that as the conflict prolongs, economic compensation intended to offset these hardships has increasingly influenced decisions to continue service, sometimes at the expense of family and other values.

Levinger draws on Jewish texts to emphasize the importance of prioritizing family over material gain, citing traditional critiques of valuing wealth above kinship and moral warnings about the ethical challenges of war. He stresses that financial temptation is a universal challenge but warns that some reservists may exploit the system, including examples of fraudulent claims for mental health treatment reimbursements. While praising the state’s support for soldiers’ mental health, he expresses regret over misuse of these benefits.

The psychotherapist calls for societal reflection on maintaining proper priorities during this complex period, advocating for preserving values such as honesty, modesty, and responsibility to family and society. He suggests that both individual role models and government policies should reinforce these principles to ensure that the national mission remains central. Levinger concludes that balancing continued military service with presence at home and work is itself a form of national duty, and preserving ethical compass is crucial to winning both external and internal battles.