Photo: depositphotos.
Israel, a country whose children are defending its independence, is surprised by the paradox that mothers of soldiers who risk their lives at the front do not receive official status. These women, who raised patriots and sent them to serve, remain “foreigners” to the state. This was reported by Time Ukraine Israel, citing Vesty.
Life between war and bureaucracy
Tatiana, Dina, and Natalia are mothers of IDF soldiers whose sons have been defending Israel at the front since 7 October 2023. However, for the state, these women do not have the proper status. “It’s humiliating: my son is serving the country, risking his life, and his mother has to prove her right to live,” says Dina Hindek, the mother of an artilleryman.
Dina has lived in Israel for over 20 years. After her divorce from her Israeli husband, she is raising her children alone. Her son has just returned from Lebanon, where he was on a combat mission. Despite this, Dina has to prove her right to live in the country to the Interior Ministry every year.
“I work two jobs, raise my children, and help my son, who is in the military. And every time I hear from officials: “Just wait”. But how much longer can we wait?” Dina asks bitterly.
She is supported by her son’s commander, who sent a letter to the Ministry of Internal Affairs. “K. is risking his life for this country, but his mother is stateless. This is absurd and must be corrected!”
Personal tragedies against the backdrop of bureaucracy
A., who came to Israel from Morocco, is raising her only son, an officer in a secret IDF unit. Despite her son’s outstanding service, every year she has to prove her right to reside. Her Israeli husband died, and she remained with a temporary resident status.
“I’m a proud mother, but it hurts me every time I come to the ‘work with foreigners’ department. I am not a stranger, this is my home!” says A.
The situation is similar for Natalia Tishkova, who has lived in Israel for over 12 years. Her eldest son is already serving in the IDF, and her daughter is preparing to be drafted. Despite the death of her Israeli husband, Natalia has to constantly renew her visa.
“I gave Israel my most precious possession – my son, who dreamed of serving despite his health condition. But every time I am faced with the need to prove my connection to this country,” Natalia said.
Individual steps are not a solution to the problem
Interior Minister Moshe Arbel recently granted citizenship to the mother and brother of fallen IDF soldier Elisha Jung. A similar decision was made for the father of another soldier who was killed in Gaza. However, these cases remain isolated.
Meanwhile, women like Dina, A. or Natalia are fighting for the right to be close to the children who are giving their lives for Israel.
Israel, which is proud of its defenders, must find a way to thank their parents as well. These women are part of the society that builds this country. And recognising their status is the least the state can do for those who gave it their most precious possessions.
