3 million Israelis experiencing trauma following the events of October 7 and the ongoing conflict in Gaza

A recent report indicates that around three million Israeli settlers have suffered from anxiety, depression, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the October 7, 2023, Operation al-Aqsa Flood carried out by Palestinian resistance groups and the ensuing conflict in Gaza.

A report released on Tuesday by Israeli Comptroller Matanyahu Engelman indicates that the Israeli mental health system, already grappling with operational challenges prior to recent events, experienced a collapse in the initial days following the onset of the Hamas-led operation.

A report highlights that six months after a large-scale, unexpected attack, a mere 0.6 percent of the affected population sought mental health treatment via health management organizations and resilience centers. This is despite 38 percent of individuals reporting moderate to severe psychological symptoms.

In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister roughly one month following the procedure, Engelman highlighted the shortcomings within the mental health care sector. Despite the warning, he noted that not all of these deficiencies have been adequately addressed.

A recent report has revealed that approximately 580,000 Israeli settlers are experiencing severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms following the events of October 7 and their subsequent impact. According to Israeli media, more than 40,000 settlers have permanently departed from occupied territories this year, highlighting a significant increase in the number of individuals leaving Israel permanently.

Engelman reported that he delivered his initial findings to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on November 13, 2023, following his visits to conflict zones situated on the southern and northern borders of the occupied territories.

He criticized Israeli Health Minister Uriel Buso and Ministry Director-General Moshe Bar Siman-Tov for failing to update the mental health system’s preparations, despite an emergency management authority assessment that has been in place since 2001.

In a recent study conducted by the comptroller’s office, findings indicate that approximately 33% of the 1,010 adults surveyed displayed symptoms consistent with moderate to severe post-traumatic stress disorder or depression. Additionally, the survey revealed that around 20% of participants experienced symptoms of anxiety.

A recent survey forecasts that an estimated 900,000 individuals are anticipated to pursue assistance for mental health concerns in the coming period.

Strained Healthcare Infrastructure

Engelman highlighted that a shortage of personnel has led to insufficient treatment capacity at Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and resilience centers, failing to adequately meet current demand.

Supported by the United States and its Western allies, Israel initiated military operations in Gaza following Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, an offensive launched by Hamas and other Palestinian resistance groups from Gaza. This came as a response to what they describe as Israel’s prolonged campaign of oppression against the Palestinian people.

Reports indicate that the ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least 48,219 Palestinians, the majority of whom are women and children, along with 111,665 individuals sustaining injuries since early October 2023.

On January 19, a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement was implemented in Gaza, effectively pausing Israel’s military operations in the coastal area.