New Data Shows Reserve Soldiers' Divorce Rates Match National Average in Israel

New statistics released by Israel's National Insurance Institute reveal that the divorce and separation rates among reserve soldiers during the recent war do not exceed the general rates in Israeli society. Contrary to common belief that extended reserve service leads to higher marital breakdowns, the data shows that 53% of reservists are single, 44% are married or in common-law relationships, 0.5% are widowed, and 3% are divorced or separated. Among those divorced or separated, about 26% ended their marriages after their first period of reserve service, a figure close to the national average divorce rate of 28%.

This report is part of the National Insurance Institute's ongoing monitoring of the social impact of prolonged reserve duty, including financial support for reservists and their families, especially those who are divorced or separated. Zvika Cohen, acting CEO of the National Insurance Institute, emphasized the importance of families of reservists as a cornerstone of Israel's national resilience. He acknowledged the challenges posed by extended service to family stability and affirmed the institute's commitment to providing necessary social support while urging relevant bodies to recognize the unique difficulties faced by reservists and their families.