Israel Defense Forces Report Highest Psychological Casualty Rate Since Start of Gaza War
According to a report by Haaretz, an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are experiencing a surge psychological casualties among its troops, described as the worst in the country's military history since the war in Gaza began in October 2023. The military is accused of concealing data on thousands of soldiers discharged due to severe mental stress, raising concerns it could harm public morale.
Haaretz revealed that the IDF delayed and withheld releasing full data upon request under Freedom of Information laws, even after deadlines had passed. Military sources indicated a tendency to withhold information deemed unfavorable to the military's image, with an insider admitting internal awareness of methods to manipulate numbers to hide unfavorable data.
Based on partial data released by the Health Corps after a legal battle up until July 2024, the military eventually released some data covering the first year of the war, showing 2,241 career soldiers and conscripts were discharged due to psychological disorders. Sources in the mental health department believe the IDF intentionally obscures complete data to prevent damage to Israeli public morale during the ongoing conflict.
https://www.gelora.co/2026/05/