Drug addiction in Israel has surged sharply since the Gaza war began in October 2023, with one in four Israelis now using harmful narcotics or addictive substances, according to a report by Haaretz citing the Israel Center for Addiction and Mental Health. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, one in ten Israelis used drugs; during the pandemic, the rate rose to one in seven, and after the Gaza conflict, it reached about 25 percent.

The study found that the use of sleeping pills has increased 2.5 times, while consumption of opioids and stimulants has nearly doubled. Alcohol and cannabis use have also risen, and 54.2 percent of those with post-traumatic stress disorder are now misusing drugs. Professor Shauli Lev-Ran, the center’s founder, warned that repeated crises have entrenched stress-related habits, making drug use persistent even after immediate stress subsides.

Interviews revealed that Israelis and Palestinian citizens alike are turning to substances such as ketamine, cocaine, amphetamines, and prescription sedatives to cope with trauma, fear, and daily violence. Experts warn that ongoing war and constant alertness could deepen the crisis further.