The Knesset will pass a dramatic increase in benefits for orphans of fallen soldiers in light of the aftermath of the 2023-2025 Middle East war, in which over 2,000 Israelis have died, Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Monday.
First, in order for them to be eligible for certain rights, the law will recognize children of soldiers as “orphans” so long as a parent died before the age of 30.
Next, certain financial support for such orphans will continue until they reach the age of 40.
The financial benefits from ages 21 to 30 will now be NIS 3,6551.92 per month. After that, the financial benefits from ages 30 to 40 will now be NIS 2,000 per month.
There will also be a one-time, two-part payment of up to NIS 50,000 to orphans over the age of 40.
Katz, Smotrich push expanded benefits for fallen IDF orphans
Monetary benefits for education, mental health, marriage, and residential living expenses will also be raised. In addition, more Defense Ministry officials will be assigned to assist orphans with their rights and any special issues.
Katz said that Financial Minister Bezalel Smotrich was also a major part of the push for the new policy.