IDF and Eran Helpline Join Forces in Race Against Time to Prevent Suicides

A vital cooperation between the Eran helpline and the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division (MPCID) is saving the lives of soldiers experiencing severe suicidal distress during their service. The partnership bridges civilian psychological support and military operational response in life-threatening situations.

When a soldier contacts Eran anonymously while on duty or at home expressing immediate suicidal intent, volunteers assess the risk. If a concrete danger to life is identified, Eran immediately alerts MPCID while keeping the soldier on the line. MPCID operatives rapidly trace the soldier's location, coordinate with base commanders, and dispatch assistance to remove weapons and secure the individual.

Dr. Michal Lev Ari, head of Eran's online support services, notes that soldiers often hesitate to turn within the military hierarchy due to fear of stigma or professional consequences. Eran provides an anonymous outlet where troops can speak freely without judgment. "We stay with them through the difficulty and try to find something that can ease their pain," she explains.

According to Warrant Officer Michal Tetro, head of the MPCID desk, the division handled hundreds of missing persons events with suicidal characteristics during 2025, with dozens reported through Eran. "In events where there is a real concern for a soldier's life, every minute counts," Tetro emphasizes. The direct communication channel between Eran senior staff and MPCID commanders ensures maximum response speed, successfully preventing tragedies by reaching soldiers at guard posts or operational units just in time.