Roi Wasserstein, a 24‑year‑old medic, and Ariel Meir, a father of four, took their own lives after enduring months of intense combat trauma in Israel’s war with Hamas.
NETANYA, ISRAEL — Israel is mourning the loss of two reservists who died by suicide within days of each other, both after enduring extreme psychological strain from months of service in the war against Hamas.
On Wednesday, Roi Wasserstein, 24, of Netanya — a reservist medic in the IDF’s elite 401st Armored Brigade — was found dead. Wasserstein had served in a medical evacuation unit, carrying out some of the most emotionally devastating missions: evacuating the wounded under fire and retrieving the bodies of fallen soldiers from Gaza’s combat zones.
Since October 2023, Wasserstein had logged more than 300 days of reserve duty, his latest deployment ending in May 2025. Friends and family say he spoke openly in recent months about the trauma and unbearable emotional toll of his service.
Despite his sacrifice, the IDF will not officially recognize him as a fallen soldier, meaning he will be buried in a civilian cemetery rather than a military one.
Another Loss, Same Week
Just days earlier, Ariel Meir, a reservist from Ofakim and father of four, was found dead in his home. Meir served in the IDF’s body identification team — a grim role intensified by the horrors of the October 7 Hamas massacre.
His work exposed him to some of the most disturbing post‑battle scenes, leaving him reportedly struggling with severe mental health challenges.
Investigations and Growing Alarm
The Military Police have launched an investigation into Meir’s death, with findings to be forwarded to the Military Prosecution. Meanwhile, Wasserstein’s death has renewed debate in Israel over how the IDF recognizes and supports reservists suffering from post‑traumatic stress.
Veterans’ advocates warn that these deaths may only be the tip of the iceberg in a mental health crisis brewing among soldiers who have endured months of relentless combat, loss, and moral injury.
Unseen Casualties of War
Both men leave behind a stark reminder that not all war casualties fall on the battlefield. Many return home physically unharmed yet carrying invisible wounds — wounds that can prove just as fatal.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, you can contact ERAN at 1201 or via WhatsApp at 052-8451201. You can also reach out to SAHAR – the Assistance and Listening Network – for anonymous, professional support.
