Israel is currently grappling with a significant crisis related to disabilities, worsened by ongoing conflict. Since the war began on October 7, there has been a worrying rise in cases of amputations, traumatic brain injuries, and psychological distress.
The Israeli Ministry of Defense reports that over 22,000 soldiers have sustained injuries since that date, with more than half suffering from PTSD or other mental health challenges. In response, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, and volunteers have mobilized quickly to provide assistance.
However, while efforts are concentrated on those injured in the war, other vulnerable groups are also in dire need, yet they have far less support.
Unexpected Crisis
Chimes Israel serves children with disabilities aged 6 months to 3 years in a subpar facility in Ashkelon, which is just six miles from Gaza and often targeted in the conflict.
Following the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023, there have been over 8,000 rockets fired at Israel, with Ashkelon bearing the brunt—around 1,040 rockets hit the city, and many struck civilian areas.
The early childhood rehabilitation program in Ashkelon operates from four repurposed homes that were never intended for therapeutic use. The settings are cramped and not fully accessible, with only three buildings housing small air raid shelters. When alarms sound, residents have a mere 30 seconds to reach safety, which is especially daunting for young children with motor impairments who cannot navigate the steep stairs quickly enough.
A Window of Development That Will Never Open Again
Interventions during early childhood, particularly from 6 months to 3 years, are crucial, as this is a period of rapid brain development. Experiences during this time not only influence a child’s growth but shape it fundamentally.
As someone involved with Chimes Israel’s International Resources, I have seen the incredible commitment of therapists in Ashkelon. Our dedicated team of professionals brings both skill and compassion, celebrating children’s milestones like their first steps or the ability to express their needs.
Yet, I’ve also witnessed how fragile that progress can be. When our center has to temporarily shut down due to directives, many children regress. A pediatric therapist expressed it poignantly: “When you lose continuity, you lose momentum.” Some children may stumble in their physical development or revert to previous behaviors during these interruptions.
Enhanced Sanctuary for Impatient Children
Chimes Israel envisions a modern, accessible rehabilitation center in Ashkelon, a place where therapy can continue through conflicts, designed specifically to cater to children with disabilities. Such a facility would allow for safe treatment even amidst sirens and crisis.
It’s heartwarming to see the commitment to helping injured soldiers and trauma victims, and we should continue that focus. But at the same time, we need to put forth equal effort for children with disabilities, as their futures hinge on timely interventions. This is urgent; we can’t afford to wait for calmer times.
Ensuring a brighter future for Israel means prioritizing its children—those who will someday become the soldiers, health workers, educators, and caregivers of tomorrow. The capabilities they develop now will define their contributions to society.
If we neglect their growth, we aren’t just limiting their potential; we’re also hindering the community’s strength and resilience as a whole. Nations that invest in their most vulnerable children ultimately create a foundation for a prosperous future.
First publication date is December 30, 2025.
Safeguard Israel’s Most At-Risk in 2026, Ensure Israel’s Future – Guest Commentary
Israel is currently grappling with a significant crisis related to disabilities, worsened by ongoing conflict. Since the war began on October 7, there has been a worrying rise in cases of amputations, traumatic brain injuries, and psychological distress.
The Israeli Ministry of Defense reports that over 22,000 soldiers have sustained injuries since that date, with more than half suffering from PTSD or other mental health challenges. In response, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, and volunteers have mobilized quickly to provide assistance.
However, while efforts are concentrated on those injured in the war, other vulnerable groups are also in dire need, yet they have far less support.
Unexpected Crisis
Chimes Israel serves children with disabilities aged 6 months to 3 years in a subpar facility in Ashkelon, which is just six miles from Gaza and often targeted in the conflict.
Following the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023, there have been over 8,000 rockets fired at Israel, with Ashkelon bearing the brunt—around 1,040 rockets hit the city, and many struck civilian areas.
The early childhood rehabilitation program in Ashkelon operates from four repurposed homes that were never intended for therapeutic use. The settings are cramped and not fully accessible, with only three buildings housing small air raid shelters. When alarms sound, residents have a mere 30 seconds to reach safety, which is especially daunting for young children with motor impairments who cannot navigate the steep stairs quickly enough.
A Window of Development That Will Never Open Again
Interventions during early childhood, particularly from 6 months to 3 years, are crucial, as this is a period of rapid brain development. Experiences during this time not only influence a child’s growth but shape it fundamentally.
As someone involved with Chimes Israel’s International Resources, I have seen the incredible commitment of therapists in Ashkelon. Our dedicated team of professionals brings both skill and compassion, celebrating children’s milestones like their first steps or the ability to express their needs.
Yet, I’ve also witnessed how fragile that progress can be. When our center has to temporarily shut down due to directives, many children regress. A pediatric therapist expressed it poignantly: “When you lose continuity, you lose momentum.” Some children may stumble in their physical development or revert to previous behaviors during these interruptions.
Enhanced Sanctuary for Impatient Children
Chimes Israel envisions a modern, accessible rehabilitation center in Ashkelon, a place where therapy can continue through conflicts, designed specifically to cater to children with disabilities. Such a facility would allow for safe treatment even amidst sirens and crisis.
It’s heartwarming to see the commitment to helping injured soldiers and trauma victims, and we should continue that focus. But at the same time, we need to put forth equal effort for children with disabilities, as their futures hinge on timely interventions. This is urgent; we can’t afford to wait for calmer times.
Ensuring a brighter future for Israel means prioritizing its children—those who will someday become the soldiers, health workers, educators, and caregivers of tomorrow. The capabilities they develop now will define their contributions to society.
If we neglect their growth, we aren’t just limiting their potential; we’re also hindering the community’s strength and resilience as a whole. Nations that invest in their most vulnerable children ultimately create a foundation for a prosperous future.
First publication date is December 30, 2025.
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