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The Fighting Family
By:
Col. (Res.) Dr. Ronen Itsik
Sep 1, 2025
In times of prolonged conflict, the family unit becomes the fundamental building block of national resilience. This comprehensive analysis examines how Israeli families have maintained psychological strength during the "Iron Swords" War - a multi-front, prolonged conflict that began in late 2023 and escalated to include direct Iranian missile attacks on Israeli population centers by mid-2025. Through a survey of 823 participants across Israel during the height of the Iran-Israel confrontation, this research provides insight into the factors that strengthen or weaken family resilience under existential threat. The findings reveal how family narratives, community support, military service, and demographic factors all contribute to Israelis' remarkable ability to maintain functioning amid chaos. Special attention is given to vulnerable populations, including youth, single-parent families, and urban residents without strong support networks. The document concludes with actionable recommendations for bolstering Israeli family resilience in preparation for future challenges.
1. Introduction: The Multi-Dimensional Nature of Family Resilience
Family resilience represents a critical component in society's ability to withstand crises, traumas, and prolonged threats. In an era of increasing uncertainty—characterized by security threats, economic crises, global pandemics, and political instability—the family's ability to maintain emotional stability, supportive communication, and internal cohesion becomes more critical than…
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