An internal document from the Health Ministry released on Friday showed a significant reinforcement of ground forces and a redirection of resources to the Dead Sea and Eilat areas, involving extensive preparations and a high economic cost.
According to the data, the decision to reinforce forces was made following a situation assessment, during which an immediate need was identified to increase medical responses in areas likely to be affected.
Amid a tense security reality, many evacuees are staying in hotels in the Dead Sea and Eilat areas, seeking some peace from the sirens. Therefore, the health system continues to prepare for scenarios involving casualties, congestion, and patient evacuations.
Among other measures, it was decided to reinforce the Magen David Adom system in the Dead Sea area, alongside the expansion of logistical and operational capabilities on the ground.
As part of the preparations, the number of teams operating around the clock has been increased, with the addition of intensive care units operating 24/7. In addition, the security arrangements for the ambulances have been enhanced, given that their operations are sometimes conducted under significant security risks.
Alongside this, additional specialized vehicles and teams have been added to ensure a quick, continuous response to every medical event, whether it involves evacuating injured individuals, treating trauma victims, or continuing routine care for the population.
The document also points to the economic cost of reinforcing the forces, estimated at more than NIS 1.5 million in the Dead Sea area and about NIS 1.9 million in the Eilat region. The cost includes, among other things, personnel salaries, vehicle operation, security, medical equipment, and additional logistical expenses.
Long-term reinforcements
According to the decision, the reinforcement of forces is not limited to immediate response but is planned to continue for several months. The period set for preparation includes extending resources until the end of 2026, with the possibility of an extension depending on security developments.
This means that the health system is preparing not only for a specific event but for a prolonged period of uncertainty, requiring a sustained high level of readiness over time.
The Health Ministry emphasized that, alongside security and medical preparations, continuity of medical care for civilians must also be maintained. This means dual management: treating the injured and those affected by security events, alongside continuing care for chronic patients, pregnant women, and medical emergencies unrelated to combat.
This reality, in which the health system operates under ongoing pressure, presents a significant challenge for medical teams, who are required to work in complex conditions and provide the broadest possible response.