Belev Echad
“These guys are injured, traumatized, devastated. They feel like their world has come to an end.”
Her murdered friend served with nonprofit dedicated to supporting Israeli soldiers wounded in action.
Recent IDF statistics have revealed that suicide is now the leading cause of death among soldiers in uniform, with an increase of nearly 20% since 2022.
Stav Mizrahi says the return to normal life was brutal; the 28-year-old was barely out of adolescence, and all he wanted was to recuperate and return to life like everyone else. Instead, he found himself facing a grueling period of rehabilitation.
“They care and want to listen. It was a beautiful thing to see, and I better understand the connection of American Jews to Israel,” said 26-year-old wounded Israeli veteran Omer Mor, who experiences a chance to interact with Diaspora Jewry as part of Belev Echad.
It marked the 10-year anniversary of the organization started by Rabbi Uriel and Shevy Vigler.
“Now, more than ever, our soldiers need a community, and they need support,” said Rabbi Uriel Vigler, co-founder of Belev Echad.