Combat Veterans Urge Israeli Authorities to Prioritize PTSD Rehabilitation Amid Rising Suicides

Kobi Cohen, a combat veteran and advocate for soldiers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), spoke in an interview with Channel 7 about the urgent need for improved rehabilitation services for combat veterans in Israel. Cohen highlighted the recent suicide of Golani Brigade soldier William Shaquin, who volunteered for the IDF, fought in Gaza, and later took his own life in New York. "We have over 100 suicides among combat veterans," Cohen said, emphasizing the ongoing crisis despite the Knesset being in recess.

Cohen, who has been protesting near the Knesset for over a year and a half alongside other combat veterans, described the daily struggles faced by those with PTSD, including severe nightmares and triggers that can worsen their condition. He noted that while legislative progress has been made, a fundamental change in the state's approach to combat veterans with PTSD is still needed.

He recalled the tragic case of Itzik Saidian, a combat veteran who self-immolated outside the Ministry of Defense's rehabilitation department, questioning how the system allowed such desperation. Cohen stressed that the primary demand of combat veterans is not financial compensation but comprehensive rehabilitation. "What we want from the next government is rehabilitation. Money does not interest us, only rehabilitation and preventing further suicides," he concluded.