Israeli President Isaac Herzog and senior defense officials reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to bringing home hostages and supporting wounded soldiers at the “Partners for Life” rehabilitation conference on Tuesday, hosted by the Israeli Defense Ministry at Tel Aviv University.
Herzog: “Bringing hostages home is a national effort”
Herzog emphasized that the return of hostages remains a top national priority. “There is no challenge more deeply ingrained in the national consciousness than the return of the hostages—every last one of them,” he said, adding that their families must not be forgotten.
He also called for legislative action to improve support for released hostages, stating, “The law does not fully address this issue. I call on the government to amend it to ensure full support.”
Baram: “A strong army needs strong rehabilitation”
Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram highlighted Israel’s responsibility to wounded soldiers. “Their strength and resolve demand an equally strong rehabilitation system,” he said.
Defense Ministry Deputy Director General Limor Luria presented key statistics:
• Over 78,000 wounded IDF and security personnel, including 16,000 since Oct. 7, 2023.
• One in two suffers from psychological distress.
• 2,900 face both physical and psychological injuries.
• Annual rehabilitation costs per casualty: 150,000 shekels ($40,876).
Luria stressed: “We can only succeed together—government, NGOs, and the business sector.”
Global collaboration on rehabilitation
The event, attended by experts from more than 20 countries, focused on rehabilitation innovations for wounded soldiers and released hostages, reinforcing Israel’s long-term commitment to their care.