Lone Soldiers

When family is thousands of kilometers away, even a small gift feels like a big hug. Lone soldiers serving in the north were surprised on their birthdays with personal gifts sent from Los Angeles.

The Ministries of Defense, Aliyah and Integration, and Diaspora Affairs are establishing a joint support framework for immigrant soldiers and overseas volunteers, which will accompany them from recruitment to civilian life. A new study pointed to gaps in information, rights, housing, and employment.

William Shakin, a 25-year-old lone soldier from New York who fought in Gaza, died by suicide while struggling with PTSD. His parents are requesting a burial at Mount Herzl, claiming the state failed to provide necessary support. The Ministry of Defense stated that no request for recognition was found and that remote assistance services are available.

Families from Los Angeles sent personal gifts to their sons and daughters serving in the IDF, and volunteers delivered them directly to bases in the north. "No soldier should feel alone."

Despite the war, about 300 young Jews from 34 countries will immigrate to Israel this summer as part of the "Tzofim Garin Tzabar" program to enlist in the IDF. Data indicate a sharp increase in participants from France, a jump in the number of religious youth, and an 85% retention rate in the country.