Post-Traumatic Reservists Protest IDF Suspension Policy After Service Freeze

Two Israeli reservists, Amit Maoz and Yosef Abramson, both recognized as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), have publicly criticized the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) recent policy that froze their reserve service. Maoz was severely wounded by a Kornet missile during the 2006 Lebanon War and struggled for years to return to combat duty despite his injuries. Abramson was injured twice during Operation Protective Edge in 2014 and fought to resume service after a decade-long exemption, rejoining combat roles in 2022.

Both men were shocked to learn their reserve service was suspended without clear explanation, only discovering the freeze was due to their classification as PTSD-disabled by the IDF Rehabilitation Department. This classification led to the unauthorized sharing of their sensitive medical information across military units, breaching their privacy and exposing them to stigma. The IDF initially implemented a review process for reservists with over 30% mental disability, but following severe criticism and a Knesset committee hearing, the procedure was paused and revised to involve only authorized medical personnel and allow appeals within four months.

Despite these adjustments, Maoz and Abramson argue the system remains flawed. They call for ending the blanket suspension policy, limiting information sharing to general indicators with patient consent, and distinguishing between PTSD and actual risk or dysfunction. They emphasize that many soldiers with PTSD continue to serve effectively and that the current approach discourages wounded soldiers from seeking recognition or treatment, potentially harming future combat readiness.

Both veterans highlight the personal and collective cost of the policy, describing the emotional impact of being sidelined after proving their capability and commitment. They stress the importance of balancing mental health care with the desire and ability of wounded soldiers to continue contributing to the military. Their testimonies underscore the need for a more nuanced, respectful approach to managing PTSD in the IDF reserve forces.