What It’s About
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is currently under scrutiny for not recognizing Eliran Mizrahi, a reservist who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and who tragically took his own life, as a fallen soldier. Mizrahi’s family is engaged in an emotional battle to have him buried in a military cemetery.
Why It Matters
This situation highlights the complexities and emotional toll of military service in Israel. The determination of Mizrahi’s status drives home the importance of mental health support for soldiers. It also emphasizes Israel’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the recognition and proper honors for those who serve the country, even under immensely challenging circumstances.
The Backstories
Mizrahi, from Ma’ale Adumim, was called into reserve duty following Hamas’s October 7 attack, tasked with recovering fatalities at the Supernova music festival. Later, as a combat engineer, he served valiantly in Gaza, where he sustained injuries and was subsequently diagnosed with PTSD.
Despite his diagnosis and being honored as a disabled IDF veteran, Mizrahi was directed to report for further duty. The emotional toll became too immense, leading him to end his life, leaving behind a grieving wife and four children.
Mizrahi’s family highlights his unyielding commitment to Israel and the IDF. His mother, Jenny, recounted his injuries and refusal to abandon his post, dedicated to protecting the state and recovering hostages. His sister, Hila, pointed to the harrowing experiences he faced in Gaza and his determination to serve, despite personal suffering.
Family’s Resolve
Eliran’s family is steadfast in their campaign to have him recognized correctly. His mother, Jenny, and sister, Hila, emphasize that the mental battle scars he carried from Gaza are no less significant than physical injuries, warranting a military burial. However, their appeals have confronted bureaucratic barriers because Mizrahi was not technically on active duty at his time of death.
What’s Next
Family members are focusing their efforts on changing the current status determination, underscoring Eliran’s sacrifices and asserting his right to be honored as a fallen soldier. The narrative continues a discourse on how Israel honors those who endure immeasurable hardships in service of the nation.
IDF’s Perspective
The IDF has acknowledged Eliran’s contributions during and prior to his reserve duties but pointed out that, according to military cemeteries law, Eliran was not eligible for military burial since he wasn’t on active duty at the time of his passing. The discussion now might also pave the way for revaluations and potential adjustments regarding how veterans grappling with psychological impacts are treated and honored.
The Bottom Line
Eliran Mizrahi’s untimely death serves as a powerful testament to the unseen wounds of war and the imperative to ensure that all soldiers, regardless of the nature of their injuries, receive the honor they richly deserve. His family’s unwavering dedication resonates with the broader mission of holistic engagement with Israel’s veteran community, emphasizing dignity, recognition, and comprehensive care.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.