ByYONAH JEREMY BOB
Updated:

In the aftermath of the 2023-2025 Middle East War, in which over 2,000 Israelis died, Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Monday that the Knesset will pass a dramatic increase in benefits for orphans of fallen IDF soldiers.

First, the new law will give recognition to children of soldiers as "orphans" for certain rights as long as the parent died before the age of 30.

Next, certain financial support for such orphans will continue until age 40.

The financial benefits from age 21-30 will now be NIS 3,651.92 per month.

The financial benefits from age 30-40 will now be NIS 2,000 per month.

IDF reserve soldiers take part in a surprise military drill in northern Israel along the border with Lebanon and Syria, a day after Hezbollah's chief of staff, Haytham Ali Tabatabai's assassination, Golan Heights, November 24, 2025
IDF reserve soldiers take part in a surprise military drill in northern Israel along the border with Lebanon and Syria, a day after Hezbollah's chief of staff, Haytham Ali Tabatabai's assassination, Golan Heights, November 24, 2025 (credit: MICHAEL GILADI/FLASH90)

Katz, Smotrich push expanded benefits for fallen IDF orphans

There will also be a two-part payment of up to NIS 50,000 to orphans aged 40 or older.

Financial 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 Betzalel Smotrich was also a major part of the push for the new policy.