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Israeli soldiers' suicide toll since Oct 7 climbs to 10: report

Israeli newspaper Haaretz reveals majority of IDF soldiers were young and psychologically disturbed

News Desk May 13, 2024

The death toll among Israeli soldiers has surpassed 600 since the outbreak of hostilities. PHOTO: REUTERS/FILE

At least 10 officers and soldiers of Israeli army have taken their own lives since the conflict between Israel and Hamas fighters began on October 7, 2023, as reported by the prominent Israeli newspaper Haaretz.

According to the report, the majority of these soldiers were young, and some of them ended their lives while stationed near Gaza settlements.

The newspaper highlighted the significant psychological pressure faced by these soldiers, citing input from numerous psychologists. Haaretz also noted a prevalence of suicidal tendencies among both active-duty and reserve soldiers, with many in their thirties and forties.

Detailing a specific incident, Haaretz reported that one service officer was discovered deceased in his car, having taken his own life after 15 days of the Al-Aqsa Flood operations.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated, "No direct link was found between these suicides and the events of October 7. However, family members and fellow soldiers noted that some of the deceased soldiers experienced heightened psychological distress following that date."

Also read: Israeli forces push into Gaza from north and south

While data confirms the suicides of ten soldiers and officers, the IDF has chosen not to disclose their names or further details. The same data reveals approximately 620 casualties among IDF soldiers and officers since October 7.

Haaretz reported that the IDF frequently withholds information regarding suicide attempts by its personnel.

Meanwhile, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported that Israel observed Memorial Day on Monday with two minutes of silence in honour of the soldiers who perished in the conflict with Gaza.

The death toll among Israeli soldiers has surpassed 600 since the outbreak of hostilities. In contrast, the toll in Gaza has been devastatingly high, with approximately 35,000 Palestinians losing their lives due to the bombardment.