Israeli Army Suicide Rate Climbs to 16 This Year Amid Gaza War

Two Israeli female soldiers died by suicide within two days—one from the Bardelas Battalion on the Egypt‑Israel border and another serving in military intelligence at the Glilot base. Their deaths raise the total of serving soldiers who have taken their own lives since the start of 2026 to 16. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) says at least nine additional former active‑duty soldiers and reservists have also died by suicide after leaving service. The surge follows the Gaza conflict that began in October 2023, which has been linked to heightened psychological strain from repeated combat deployments. Military police have opened investigations into both recent cases, with findings to be reviewed by the military prosecutor’s office. Experts warn that prolonged exposure to combat and post‑traumatic stress disorder are driving the rise, prompting calls for better mental‑health support for troops.