he State of Israel is falling behind in the fight against violence against women, because the law does not define “domestic violence.” Since the beginning of 2025, 33 women have been murdered. Behind many of these cases are relationships marked by non-physical violence. Without a clear legal definition of domestic violence in Israel, economic violence, psychological abuse, and coercive control remain outside the legal system. Therefore, professionals cannot identify or treat them in time.
As a result, these forms of harm often escalate into lethal violence. Therefore, the Rackman Center for the Advancement of Women’s Status at Bar-Ilan University calls on the government to adopt a broad and inclusive definition of domestic violence. In addition, the Center urges the state to implement effective measures such as electronic monitoring for protection orders, welfare involvement in weapons licensing, and legal counsel for women in shelters.
Attorney Shelly Belatt Zak, CEO of the Rackman Center, explains: “The fight against domestic violence requires a change in perception. We must expand the understanding of violence and identify early signs, even when they are not physical. Now, more than ever, is the time to act.”
