Four Female Soldiers in IDF's Lions of Jordan Battalion Denied Mental Health Support for Over Two Months

Four female soldiers undergoing training in the IDF's mixed-gender Lions of Jordan battalion requested to meet with a mental health officer (Kaban) but were not attended to for more than two and a half months, contrary to IDF protocols. One of the soldiers, who is reported to be in a difficult mental state and unable to participate in all activities, claimed that her commander threatened to prevent her from receiving mental health care if she sought help to leave service. This incident follows a troubling week in which three soldiers, including a reservist, an intelligence soldier, and a combatant from the mixed Bardelas battalion, took their own lives despite having sought assistance.

The IDF spokesperson stated that the commanders' conduct is under review, noting that some requests for mental health support were recently fulfilled while others were canceled at the soldiers' own request. The spokesperson emphasized that the battalion has an accessible mental health system and that a dedicated mental health officer is assigned to the company in question. Following media inquiries, the IDF confirmed that these cases are now being treated with full seriousness.

The report highlights ongoing challenges within the IDF regarding timely mental health support for soldiers, especially in combat units. It also provides information about ERAN, a nonprofit offering 24/7 anonymous mental health first aid to anyone in distress, including soldiers and their families, with contact details for immediate assistance.