Israel Launches First Dedicated Support Community for Female Combat Veterans
The Yehalomim LeChaim association has launched Yehalomot, Israel's first dedicated community for female combat veterans coping with post-traumatic stress and psychological injuries.
The "Yehalomai Krash" forum, operating under the "Yehalomim LeChaim" association, has announced the launch of "Yehalomot," a dedicated community for female combat veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress. The initiative was established following the realization that alongside the shared struggle of psychological combat injuries, women face unique needs and challenges requiring tailored solutions and a safe, understanding space.
The community will be managed by Shir Schneerson, a combat veteran and therapeutic dog trainer, who will lead ongoing operations alongside a professional team. According to Ministry of Defense Rehabilitation Department data published in October 2026, roughly 30,000 wounded IDF and security forces personnel have been admitted since the outbreak of the Swords of Iron war, of whom about 8% are women, and roughly 63% of all admitted wounded face psychological injuries. Furthermore, Knesset Research and Information Center data shows that out of 6,410 psychological recognition requests filed through December 2024, approximately 11% were submitted by women.
While public discourse regarding combat stress is largely associated with men, female veterans also grapple with service-related psychological wounds impacting multiple life domains, including comorbidities, employment, partnerships, family, and a sense of personal security and self-worth. The "Yehalomot" community will offer a secure female space where women dealing with combat injuries can meet peers experiencing similar realities without needing to explain themselves or overexpose themselves.
The community is open to women recognized by the Ministry of Defense Rehabilitation Department, those undergoing the recognition process, or those dealing with combat reactions—both female combatants and support personnel. Activities will include group meetings, workshops, personal empowerment sessions, and professional integration opportunities. Nadav Wirsch, chairman of the forum, noted that the initiative was born to provide a safe space where women can heal, grow, and rebuild their lives.
