Summary of IDF Casualties Over the Past Two Years

The IDF Manpower Directorate Published Casualty Data for 2023–2024.
Since the beginning of the war, 891 IDF soldiers in regular service, career soldiers, and reservists have fallen, and 5,569 have been injured.

In 2023, 558 IDF soldiers fell in regular service, career positions, and the reserves, compared to 44 in 2022. Of these, 329 fell on October 7.

Among these casualties, 512 occurred during operational activity. Sixteen soldiers died in various accidents, including two in training accidents, four in civilian traffic accidents, five in military traffic accidents, one in a weapons-related accident, and four in other accidents. Seventeen cases are under investigation as suspected suicides. Ten soldiers passed away due to illness, and three were killed in terror and enemy attacks.

In 2024, 363 IDF soldiers fell in regular service, career positions, and the reserves, compared to 558 in 2023.

Of these, 295 casualties occurred during operational activity. Twenty-three soldiers died in various accidents, including 17 in civilian traffic accidents, three in military traffic accidents, and three in other accidents. Twenty-one cases are under investigation as suspected suicides. Thirteen soldiers passed away due to illness, and 11 were killed in terror and enemy attacks.

"Since the beginning of the war," stated BG Amir Vadmani, Chief of Staff for the Manpower Directorate, "we have witnessed the heroism of IDF soldiers fighting on all fronts, demonstrating resilience, commitment to the mission, and perseverance. Thousands of wounded are still in rehabilitation departments, bravely continuing to cope."

"The State of Israel has experienced great loss," BG Vadmani added. "Each person is a world unto themselves, and each loss is one too many. We must strive to provide optimal solutions to the issues. We will do everything possible to minimize these painful cases."

The IDF has implemented measures to prevent suicides and provide mental health support. A 24/7 mental health assistance hotline has been established, and the number of mental health officers and their availability has been increased. Preparations, debriefings, and task closures are conducted as part of every operational activity to build mental resilience among soldiers. A dedicated clinic has been established for regular service members, and care for combat trauma responses has been expanded for discharged soldiers and career personnel.

Commanders have received training to identify distress signals in various ways, and lessons from past cases of suspected suicides have been integrated. Continuity of command is ensured throughout all stages of training, and treatment continuity is maintained during sensitive periods, such as basic training and transitions between roles.

In cases involving suspected suicide, a command investigation is conducted immediately, and a Military Police investigation is opened. A team led by a colonel examines the command processes preceding the incident, presents conclusions, and implements systemic lessons. An annual forum led by the Manpower Directorate’s Chief of Staff evaluates recommendations and outlines future action plans based on past suicide cases. Additionally, a forum focused on external learning with civilian mental health professionals has been established.