Israeli Knesset Approves Extension of Statute of Limitations for Child Sexual Abuse Cases

The Israeli Knesset approved in its second and third readings the first part of the "Hila Tzur Law," which extends the statute of limitations for sexual offenses committed against minors. The bill was initiated by Knesset members Limor Son Har-Melech, Efrat Rayten, Eliyahu Revivo, and others from both the coalition and opposition. Under the approved law, the statute of limitations for sexual offenses against minors is extended until the victim reaches the age of 48. In cases involving sexual offenses within the family or incest, the limitation period is extended by an additional year, until age 49, recognizing the unique challenges victims face in disclosing abuse by family members or close authority figures.

This legislation follows approximately two years of preparatory work, professional discussions, and collaboration among Knesset members across parties, the Ministry of Justice, support organizations, professionals, and survivors who shared their experiences. Limor Son Har-Melech described the day as historic for victims of sexual offenses in Israel, emphasizing that many survivors only find the strength to tell their stories decades later, often after the legal system’s deadlines have passed. She stated that the law offers thousands of victims a real chance for justice and acknowledges the long, complex processes of healing and trauma disclosure. However, she noted this is only the first step, with the ultimate goal being the complete abolition of the statute of limitations for sexual offenses against minors.

Son Har-Melech also thanked survivors who supported the law, including Hila Tzur, Hanania Rotem, Hagit Cohen, Maya Ben Haim, Eli Rakav, and Shay Lee Tevel. Yaakov Sela, director of the Knesset’s Lobby for Preventing Sexual Abuse and a survivor himself, called the law a significant achievement recognizing that trauma does not adhere to judicial timelines. He affirmed ongoing efforts to completely eliminate the statute of limitations for these crimes. The law’s passage marks a major advancement in Israeli legal protections for victims of childhood sexual abuse.