Daijiworld Media Network – Jerusalem
Jerusalem, May 22: The Israeli military received 2,420 complaints related to sexual assault and harassment in 2025, marking an increase of around 350 cases compared to the previous year, according to data presented by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to the Knesset.
The figures were disclosed during a hearing of the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, where the military detailed the scope of sexual misconduct cases and the action taken against offenders.
According to the IDF, more than 700 complaints resulted in disciplinary hearings, while 42 indictments were filed against accused personnel. Another 21 individuals faced disciplinary trials.
The military said nearly 10 per cent of the complaints were investigated by the Military Police or Israeli Police, while 59 per cent were handled internally through disciplinary and command channels, including hearings and disciplinary proceedings that in some cases led to removal from positions.
Officials stated that 22 per cent of the cases remained inconclusive or were not fully pursued, while four per cent could not be handled due to what were described as “external circumstances”.
The IDF also revealed that 48 complainants who initially reported incidents later chose to withdraw their complaints.
In addition, 60 civilian contractors were barred from entering military bases over misconduct-related allegations, while warning calls were reportedly issued to another 71 employees.
Opposition coordinator and Yesh Atid lawmaker Merav Ben-Ari described the figures as “deeply disturbing”, particularly given the sharp rise in complaints.
She said the military must take stronger preventive measures against sexual harassment and ensure continuous support for victims throughout their service.
During the hearing, IDF representatives highlighted measures introduced over the past year to improve reporting mechanisms and victim support systems.
These reportedly include technological tools, expanded accessibility to complaint channels, a dedicated WhatsApp hotline for confidential reporting, and awareness materials displayed across military bases and restroom facilities.
The hearing was conducted under a legal requirement mandating the IDF to regularly report to the Knesset on sexual harassment cases within the armed forces and the handling of such incidents.