Israeli soldier commits suicide at military base, raising total to 61

Wednesday, December 17, 2025 -An Israeli soldier has died by suicide at a military base in northern Israel, bringing the total number of suicide‑related deaths among Israeli soldiers since the start of the Gaza war in October 2023 to 61. 

The soldier, serving in regular compulsory military duty, shot himself inside the base and was later pronounced dead in hospital. The Israeli military police have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.

Official data show a significant rise in suicide attempts and deaths among Israeli troops amid prolonged conflict stress. A Knesset report noted that 279 soldiers attempted suicide between January 2024 and July 2025, with roughly one completed suicide for every seven attempts. 

Of the 61 deaths linked to suicide since the war’s start, 48 occurred during active service and at least 13 were among veterans coping with psychological trauma after leaving service.

The rise in suicides has underscored serious concerns about mental health within the Israel Defense Forces, with thousands of soldiers reportedly receiving treatment for trauma‑related disorders. 

Military leaders have acknowledged the growing crisis, noting that extended deployments, exposure to intense combat conditions, and prolonged psychological strain are contributing factors that demand urgent attention and expanded support.