Israel’s Iron Beam laser-defense system to launch by year’s end
(JTA) — The Israeli Air Force’s Iron Beam laser air defense system is set to become operational in roughly nine months, Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Sunday during a visit to a Rafael Advanced Defense Systems facility in the Lower Galilee.
While touring Rafael’s Leshem Institute in the community of Rakefet, the minister delivered a stern message to Israel’s enemies, underscoring the nation’s expanding defensive and offensive arsenal.
“Our enemies should understand clearly: We possess multiple means to deliver a decisive strike. If they challenge Israel again, their hand will be severed,” Katz declared, flanked by Rafael executives and senior defense officials.
Developed by Rafael, the Iron Beam system uses laser technology to intercept rockets and drones, offering a significantly more cost-effective solution compared to traditional systems such as the Iron Dome. The Defense Ministry confirmed that the system will be deployed by the end of the year.
Nearly half of Israeli young adults suffering from PTSD, study shows
(JNS) — Nearly half of young adults in Israel now suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to a new study by Beersheva’s Ben-Gurion University of the Negev.
The Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led terrorist invasion from Gaza took the Jewish state completely by surprise, and triggered the longest war in Israel’s history.
According to the study, which was published on Monday, PTSD rates among young adults aged 18-24 soared from 25% before the war to 42% after it began.
Among those evacuated from their homes on the Jewish state’s southern and northern borders, the rate increased to 60%.
The study also highlighted rises in depression, loneliness and harmful coping mechanisms, such as self-blame and substance abuse.
A study by Tel Aviv University researchers published over a year ago suggested that nearly a quarter of Israel’s entire Jewish population was suffering from PTSD following the Oct. 7 attack.
Meanwhile, Haifa University found that two out of every three Israelis living abroad experienced PTSD symptoms in the initial two months after the outbreak of the war.
At a Jerusalem Purim party for children with disabilities, costumes are inclusive by design
(JTA) — Welcoming children for a Purim celebration this week, the security guards at the official home of Israel’s president drew laughs when they asked a routine security question: Was there any metal in the children’s costumes?
These weren’t typical visitors. The children wore a costume designed around their mobility device — wheelchairs and walkers transformed into rockets, game consoles, and circus tents. Yes, there was metal inside.
Hosted by First Lady Michal Herzog, Monday’s event marked the 10th anniversary of an initiative that creates custom Purim costumes for children with disabilities.
President Isaac Herzog made an unscheduled appearance, stopping to speak to the children and pose for photos. His wife, Michal, spent several minutes with each child.
