Photographs document how two years of fighting in Gaza have left many Israeli soldiers facing PTSD, depression and other long-term mental health challenges. Suicide rates are increasing while the military rushes to expand support; experts say current capacity is still insufficient. Grassroots groups and programs — including the Back2Life rehabilitation farm in Sdot Yam — are providing short-term relief and alternative therapies. This gallery, curated by AP photo editors, highlights the human cost and community responses.
Photos: Israeli Soldiers Grapple with PTSD and Depression After Two Years of Gaza War
Photographs document how two years of fighting in Gaza have left many Israeli soldiers facing PTSD, depression and other long-term mental health challenges. Suicide rates are increasing while the military rushes to expand support; experts say current capacity is still insufficient. Grassroots groups and programs — including the Back2Life rehabilitation farm in Sdot Yam — are providing short-term relief and alternative therapies. This gallery, curated by AP photo editors, highlights the human cost and community responses.
03:29 PM, 11/13/2025Conflict
SDOT YAM, Israel — Soldiers struggle to heal after prolonged conflict
After two years of fighting in Gaza, Israel’s longest war has pushed thousands of soldiers to the brink. A growing number are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and other lasting mental health problems, according to medical professionals and community groups.
As suicide rates rise, the military is racing to expand mental health services, but experts warn that current capacity and resources remain insufficient to meet the scale of need. Families, clinicians and veteran groups say many ex-combatants are left to navigate recovery without timely or consistent support.
Community responses and alternative therapies
Grassroots organizations and private initiatives have stepped in to fill gaps left by public services. These range from clinical counseling programs to alternative and supportive therapies, including animal-assisted rehabilitation. At Back2Life on the Sdot Yam kibbutz, former fighters find brief moments of calm caring for rescue animals and participating in structured rehabilitation activities.
Photographs in this gallery capture intimate moments of struggle, recovery and resilience as soldiers and veterans cope with the mental-health consequences of extended frontline service.
This photo gallery was curated by AP photo editors.
EDITOR'S NOTE — This story includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, U.S. residents can call or text the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or use the online chat at 988lifeline.org. Helplines outside the U.S. are listed at www.iasp.info/suicidalthoughts. If you are in immediate danger, contact local emergency services.