Israeli Soldier Diagnosed with PTSD Detained Without Mental Health Treatment for Over Nine Days

An Israeli soldier from the Givati Brigade, diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a deadly battle in Rafah, Gaza Strip, has been held in military detention for over nine days without receiving psychiatric care. The soldier, who lost four comrades in the June 2024 operation and was praised for his exemplary conduct during the incident, sought to regularize his military status after his mental health deteriorated and he was unable to return to active duty. Despite medical evaluations recommending urgent psychiatric follow-up and barring his return to combat or contact with weapons, he was detained upon voluntarily reporting to the military prison at Neve Tzedek in late June 2026, facing charges related to unauthorized absence from service for 632 days.

The soldier's condition worsened after the traumatic event, including nightmares, hallucinations of the smell of corpses, and episodes of irritability and violence. His family reported repeated requests for mental health support during active duty were denied. After leaving the army, he was diagnosed with anxiety and depression and referred for psychiatric emergency care, where PTSD symptoms were identified. A specialist psychiatrist, Dr. Israel Gluzman, confirmed the PTSD diagnosis linked to his military trauma.

Military prosecutors continue to request the soldier's detention pending legal proceedings, while military judges have emphasized the unusual nature of the case and urged expedited psychiatric evaluation. However, more than nine days into his detention, the soldier has yet to meet with mental health professionals. The IDF spokesperson stated that medical assessments are ongoing and that the soldier is receiving appropriate care, but could not provide further details due to privacy laws.

This case highlights challenges faced by soldiers suffering from combat-related trauma and the military's handling of mental health issues amid legal processes. It also coincides with broader concerns about the psychological impact of the conflict, with approximately 26,000 injured, many with mental health needs, prompting recommendations from the War Victims Committee to enhance support for wounded soldiers and their families.