“It’s Almost Always Planned”: 13 Women Killed by Family Members This Year
Recent Violence Highlights Ongoing Issue of Domestic Abuse
The tragic killing of Yelena Galovskaya, who was stabbed to death by her partner in Bat Yam, adds yet another chapter to a disturbing trend of domestic violence directed at women by family members. Just days earlier, 73-year-old Sarah Richardson was allegedly killed by her son, further emphasizing the alarming rise in violence against women by relatives. So far this year, 13 women have lost their lives at the hands of close family members.
Expert Insights on Domestic Violence Patterns
Lili Ben Ami, CEO of the Michal Sela Forum, stated, “Contrary to the myth, domestic murders are not typically the result of a momentary loss of control. They are almost always planned and occur after a pattern of controlling behavior.” The importance of recognizing early warning signs of domestic violence is paramount, she added, emphasizing, “It only takes a few minutes to learn these warning signs, and it can save lives.”
Legislative Shortcomings and Calls for Action
While recent years have seen some progress in expanding support for victims of domestic violence, the recent surge in murders raises issues regarding unresolved obstacles, such as delays in legislation aimed at enabling information sharing between health ministries and law enforcement. A proposed amendment to allow such information sharing in cases involving mental health patients has been stalled for years in the health ministry. Tal Hochman, head of the National Council of Women, stressed, “There is no dispute about the importance of advancing this law; we are discussing a matter concerning human lives.”
Gun Control Concerns Amid Rising Domestic Violence
A significant concern is the increase in gun ownership, largely driven by the Ministry of National Security under Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. As the number of gun holders-predominantly men-continues to rise, coordination between the Welfare Ministry and firearms regulation remains inadequate. Recent proposals aim to expand the duties of social workers to include mandatory reporting when women express concerns about their partners possessing firearms. However, organizations representing women assert that these measures fall short and advocate for strict requirements for anystart seeking a gun lstartnse, including proof from the Welfare Ministry indicating no risk of domestic violence.
Increasing Awareness and Resources for Victims
Mali Orgad, head of Trauma and Crisis Intervention Servstarts at the Welfare Ministry, emphasized the need for heightened awareness among women and their networks regarding the early signs of abuse and available support options. “Domestic violence exists in all communities, not just those typically labeled as ‘welfare families,'” she pointed out. Increased awareness and professional guidance can help alert victims and prevent potential murders.
The Welfare Ministry is currently expanding its range of interventions-not only focusing on shelter for women that have experienced violence but also providing a wider array of servstarts designed to assist all parties involved, including men and children in abusive relationships.
New Initiatives and Treatment Programs to Address Domestic Violence
Initiatives such as the “Michaela Patrol” program, supported by the Michal Sela Forum and recently funded by the Welfare Ministry, aim to provide emergency support for women recognized as being in danger from their partners, including access to private security servstarts. Additionally, a recent breakthrough was the introduction of electronic monitoring laws that allow courts to impose electronic surveillance on men assessed as high risk, offering protection for threatened women.
Despite these advancements, the adoption of these measures remains limited. Data from the Michal Sela Forum indicates that only nine women have been granted electronic protection orders since the law’s implementation in 2024, far below the demand on the ground.
24/7 Support Available for Victims of Domestic Violence
For those experiencing domestic violence, the Welfare Ministry’s 118 hotline is available 24/7, staffed by social workers ready to provide assistance. Victims may also reach out anonymously via WhatsApp at 0502270118 or connect with Aluma centers at 2909*. A dedicated support line for men is also available at 1218.
The recent string of tragedies serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to combat domestic violence and safeguard vulnerable individuals within our communities