In response to the sexual abuse perpetrated by Hamas terrorists, the Welfare Ministry, in collaboration with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the Health Ministry, is developing a unique program to support kidnapped Israeli women who may return from Hamas captivity pregnant.

The initiative aims to integrate existing support systems for sustained sexual abuse victims, with a particular focus on those facing unplanned pregnancies. The program will provide comprehensive medical and psychological care, addressing both the advanced and early stages of pregnancy. Women will have the choice to either terminate the pregnancy or continue it, based on their own decision.

Preparations are already underway at Wolfson Hospital in Holon to receive kidnapped women suspected of enduring sexual abuse. In the hospital's acute care facility, the physical condition of the women and the developmental status of the fetus will be closely monitored.

Following the medical care phase, extensive trauma therapy will be provided, recognizing the lengthy process it entails. During this phase, important decisions regarding the continuation of the pregnancy will be made. Emotional and psychological counseling will be available, with social workers instructed to maintain regular telephone contact with women who decline such treatment.

For women returning in a state of pregnancy, the critical decision of whether to keep the fetus or consider abortion will be addressed. The ministry's professionals will debate whether it is appropriate to bypass the usual abortion committee proceedings, offering an expedited process for these cases compared to other women seeking termination. If a woman chooses to carry the pregnancy to term and raise the child, she will receive comprehensive psychological, legal, and financial support to ensure her well-being.

Recent testimonies from former captive women like Chen Almog Goldstein and Aviva Sigal have shed light on the distressing conditions experienced by those held by Hamas. Concerns about disrupted menstrual cycles and dehumanizing treatment have raised further attention to the ongoing suffering endured by these women.

While Israeli law allows abortions up to the moment of birth, decisions regarding late-term terminations are complex and carry higher medical risks for the mother. Gynecologists in medical centers across the country have already appointed professionals to prepare for such scenarios and emphasize the significance of addressing the psychological impact on captive women who have conceived.

The program developed by the Welfare Ministry, IDF, and Health Ministry strives to provide comprehensive care and support for sexually abused kidnapped women returning pregnant from Hamas captivity. By integrating medical and psychological assistance, the aim is to help these women navigate the challenging decision-making process and address the enduring trauma they have experienced.