Israeli Parliament Unanimously Passes Combat Stress Disorder Law Defining and Supporting Veterans

The Israeli Knesset unanimously approved the Combat Stress Disorder Law on July 15, 2026, in a rare moment of unity between the coalition and opposition. The law, championed by Coalition Chairman Ofir Katz, passed swiftly within about a week, receiving support from 70 members of Knesset with no opposition. It officially defines "combat stress disorder" as a stress reaction to traumatic events during operational military activity and recognizes affected individuals as disabled due to post-traumatic conditions related to combat stress.

The legislation mandates that the Disabled Rehabilitation Division of the Ministry of Defense provide tailored treatment to those diagnosed with combat stress disorder according to their disability level. It also formalizes the role of a special committee authorized to grant exceptional assistance to disabled IDF and security forces veterans, and in special cases, to their family members facing severe hardship linked to the veteran's disability.

Ofir Katz announced that the committee’s budget will be increased by 45 million shekels to cover entitlements, compensations, and benefits on a case-by-case basis. Katz described the law’s passage as a historic moment, emphasizing the commitment to fight for the rights of soldiers who have fought for the country. The bill’s explanatory notes highlighted the increasing complexity of physical and mental injuries among soldiers and security personnel, especially following recent conflicts, underscoring the need to officially recognize combat stress disorder.