Israel Defense Forces investigate suicide of reserve soldier

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is investigating the death of 24-year-old reserve soldier Oriel Molto Gitahon, a resident of Carmiel, who died by suicide last Thursday. Although Gitahon was not on active duty at the time of his death, preliminary military assessments suggest a potential link between his passing and his previous military service, which included combat in the northern Gaza Strip in 2024.

The IDF has contacted Gitahon’s family to offer assistance in applying to the Ministry of Defense to have him recognized as a “death due to service.” If a causal link is officially established, the family would be eligible for specific social and financial benefits.

This incident has intensified domestic discussions regarding rising suicide rates among soldiers and reservists. Reports indicate an increase in such cases since the beginning of the year, attributed to the psychological burdens of ongoing multi-front warfare. Medical and security experts point to widespread psychological issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among service members, noting that many do not receive timely mental health support.