Israel Sees Dramatic 54% Surge in Men Seeking Sexual Assault Support

A sharp rise in reports to the men's crisis hotline has been recorded by the Tel Aviv and Dan Region Association of Rape Crisis Centers, with data showing a 54% increase in 2025 compared to the previous year. Officials and activists attribute this trend to a profound shift in public discourse surrounding sexual assault against men, particularly influenced by testimonies from released hostages since the events of October 7, 2023.

Elad, a 37-year-old resident of Beersheba, is one of the men who chose to break the silence. Having experienced seven sexual assaults throughout his life, he recounts the most recent incident, which occurred less than two years ago. After interacting on Facebook with a woman who invited him to her apartment in Tel Aviv, he lost consciousness shortly after consuming a drink she provided. He woke up later with no recollection of how he returned home to Beersheba.

Adv. Neta Patrick, CEO of the Tel Aviv and Dan Region Rape Crisis Center, emphasizes that the courageous testimonies of returned hostages have dismantled long-standing taboos, enabling men who suffered abuse years ago to finally seek help. While social stigma and a perceived threat to masculinity still deter many victims, advocates stress the urgent need for accessible professional services, noting that male survivors often face severe shortages in dedicated medical and psychological support frameworks, such as acute care rooms in hospitals.

Orit Solitsiano, CEO of the Association of Rape Crisis Centers, echoes these findings, noting that the persistent public discussion on sexual violence during the October 7 attacks and captivity has deeply permeated Israeli society. For many survivors, making that initial phone call to the hotline marks the crucial first step toward psychological healing.