The Israeli Defense Ministry announced on Sunday that more than 20,000 soldiers have been wounded since October 7, 2023, underscoring the severe toll the Gaza War has taken on Israel’s armed forces as the conflict nears its third year.
According to the ministry’s Rehabilitation Department, around 45% of the wounded sustained physical injuries, 35% are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder or other mental health conditions, and 20% are grappling with both. Over 10,000 soldiers have required mental health treatment, with reservists making up nearly two-thirds of all cases.
The figures highlight the strain on an Israeli military originally structured for short, decisive wars, not years of continuous combat. Official data shows 904 soldiers and 70 police officers have been killed since the conflict began. Adjusted to the U.S. population, Israel’s combined military casualties would equate to more than 750,000 in the American context, excluding civilian losses.
The psychological impact is particularly acute. Reports indicate a rise in suicides among reservists, while thousands more have been discharged from service due to combat-related stress. Desertion rates have also increased, with Israeli media reporting that during this month’s reserve call-up for the planned offensive into Gaza City, nearly half of the reservists in some units failed to report for duty.
This erosion of readiness has intensified tensions between the military leadership and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Military officials, including Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, have voiced concern over Netanyahu’s decision to fully occupy Gaza City. Zamir warned that occupation alone would not defeat Hamas without a political plan for postwar governance.
“Military occupation alone won’t defeat Hamas,” Zamir said, cautioning of heightened risks to hostages, the dangers of prolonged urban warfare, and the unsustainability of extended troop deployments.