Introducing an expedited process for the prompt recognition of IDF disability post the Iron Swords War:

The ongoing intense conflicts involving Israel's security forces and activists from terrorist organizations Hamas and Hezbollah have resulted in thousands of casualties among our personnel. In response, the Ministry of Defense's Rehabilitation Department has admitted over 1,200 new casualties, encompassing permanent army personnel, reservists, and police officers. Given the complex security situation and ongoing multifront fighting, the Ministry of Defense has made a decision enabling these individuals to be swiftly recognized as disabled by the IDF. The rehabilitation department was ready to admit a larger number of casualties, including members of standby squads and military officers. It's crucial to highlight in this context that, currently, auxiliary forces like ZAKA and firefighters cannot be officially recognized as disabled by the IDF, as a legislative amendment is necessary for such acknowledgment.

In light of the increased number of physically and mentally wounded following the Iron Swords War, the Rehabilitation Division has taken steps to significantly streamline the process of recognizing these casualties as disabled within the IDF. The new procedure is immediate and is conducted by Rehabilitation Division personnel stationed in 16 hospitals across the country. This expedited recognition allows the wounded to commence treatment and rehabilitation in the hospitals without the need for document submission, bypassing the usual medical committees responsible for determining disability percentages. The "Rehabilitation Together and Now" program of the Rehabilitation Division, published on October 22, 2023, emphasizes the principle that starting rehabilitation earlier leads to shorter and more successful outcomes. Since the beginning of the war, the division has treated 1,210 new casualties, with 329 recognized as disabled by the IDF. Notably, 88% of department requests were approved on the same day.

The rapid recognition by the rehabilitation department aims not only to expedite the rehabilitation process but also to provide immediate assistance to the injured. Alongside an immediate one-time grant and reimbursements for various expenses based on the severity of the injury and the duration of hospitalization, the department offers reimbursements to the families of the injured for various expenses related to the injury. This includes compensation for hospital accommodation, compensation for lost work days, and financial support for immediate needs. Additionally, the division offers preventive mental health treatments to the injured and their families. It also aids in implementing physical adjustments to their permanent residences and promptly provides essential medical equipment. It is important to highlight that, in parallel with the Rehabilitation Department at the Ministry of Defense, the IDF Disabled Organization accompanies the newly wounded and supports them throughout the rehabilitation process.

Our office seeks to strengthen the spirits of all those wounded in the security forces, expressing our gratitude for their service in defending the land and citizens of Israel. We wish them good health and a swift recovery.