Warriors of Israel: U.S. Organization Supporting Wounded Israeli Soldiers Adopts New Name

@Mark Mondar

As Israel faces an unprecedented need for rehabilitation since October 7, 2023, the U.S.-based organization supporting wounded Israeli soldiers is adopting a new name and reaffirming its commitment to veterans and their families. The American organization “Friends of Irgun Nechei Zahal,” also known as “Beit Halochem USA,” has announced a name change and will now operate as “Warriors of Israel.”

The new identity comes as Israel faces what the organization describes as the largest rehabilitation effort in its history. “Warriors of Israel” is the official U.S. arm of the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization (ZDVO) and supports the five Beit Halochem rehabilitation centers across Israel.

Behind the name change, the organization says it is reaffirming a mission it has pursued for more than 75 years: supporting wounded Israeli soldiers and their families, from initial rehabilitation through long-term recovery and rebuilding.

Its commitment is now summed up in a simple message: “Their sacrifice, our responsibility.”

“The name Warriors of Israel reflects the strength and courage of those we support,” says Sam Zussman, Chairman of the Board of Warriors of Israel. “Thousands of people are embarking on a healing journey that will last a lifetime. Our responsibility is just as enduring: to ensure that every wounded soldier can live with dignity and independence, and find meaning in their lives.”

A Generation of Wounded Soldiers

According to figures provided by the organization, more than 26,200 soldiers have been wounded since the beginning of the war, suffering both physical injuries and psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression.

Israel’s Ministry of Defense estimates that by the end of 2026, more than 90,000 wounded soldiers could require rehabilitation and long-term support.

For many of them, returning from the battlefield does not mark the end of their ordeal. Their injuries may require years of medical care, rehabilitation and ongoing support.

@Elad Malka

At the five Beit Halochem centers located across Israel, wounded veterans can access physical rehabilitation programs, mental health services, adapted sports activities, vocational training and assistance in returning to employment. Support groups, as well as programs for spouses and children, are also part of the organization’s approach.

A Community Beyond Rehabilitation

For “Warriors of Israel,” Beit Halochem is more than a network of medical and sports centers. The organization describes it as a community that brings together wounded veterans from different parts of Israeli society.

New beneficiaries can meet veterans who themselves went through rehabilitation journeys decades earlier. This proximity provides experience, advice and support that extend far beyond the medical framework.

The goal is not only to help wounded soldiers gradually regain their independence, but also to rebuild their personal, family and professional lives.

A Renewed Commitment from the United States

American support is a central component of this mission. Over the past decade, more than 30,000 Americans have joined the “Warriors of Israel” community of supporters, helping fund programs for wounded soldiers and their families.

For Iris Reff Ronen, CEO of “Warriors of Israel,” the current needs present a particular challenge: today’s generation of wounded soldiers is younger, and psychological injuries are often accompanied by physical trauma.

“Their recovery will not be measured in weeks or months, but over a lifetime,” she says. “We must invest in the opportunities, resources and community that enable wounded soldiers and their families to rebuild their lives and take ownership of the future they deserve.”

@Nicolas Smirnov

A New Chapter for a Historic Organization

With the name change, “Warriors of Israel” aims to raise the visibility of its work as the number of people requiring rehabilitation continues to grow.

More than 75 years after beginning its work on behalf of wounded veterans, “Warriors of Israel” is opening a new chapter at a time when the rehabilitation of an entire generation of soldiers has become a major challenge for Israeli society.

Caroline Haïat