Published on: September 29, 2025, 01:35h.
Updated on: September 29, 2025, 01:35h.
- Gambling issues have emerged among certain Israeli men due to the Gaza War
- Some individuals turn to gambling as a means of escapism
- Nonetheless, gambling can lead to widespread addiction problems
Recent research from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem highlights a rise in gambling-related issues in Israel due to the ongoing Gaza conflict.
The Gaza War began with Hamas and allied militant groups launching a surprise offensive against Israel on October 7, 2023, and has persisted for nearly two years. The conflict has seen approximately 90,000 deaths, predominantly among Hamas and allied groups.
Over 2,000 Israelis have lost their lives, including about 1,000 civilians. The chronic nature of the conflict has resulted in significant emotional and mental strains, contributing to an increase in gambling problems, according to findings from the Israel Center for Addiction and Mental Health (ICAMH) at Hebrew University.
Two years post-October 7, the psychological effects are manifesting in unforeseen ways. A study indicates that Israeli men experiencing emotional regulation issues were predisposed to gambling problems following the attacks and war,” the summary stated for the university study titled, “The Hidden Costs of October 7: Trauma’s Connection to Gambling Issues.”
“The results reveal that collective trauma not only leaves an imprint on memory but also manifests as personal struggles for coping and resilience,” the researchers elaborated.
Surge in Gambling Issues
Led by ICAMH Professor Mario Mikulincer and Research Head Dr. Uri Lifshin, the study examined gambling trends resulting from the events of October 7. They collected concerning data from a demographically varied group representative of the adult Jewish population in Israel.
The group underwent surveys conducted four separate times — in April 2022, December 2023, March 2024, and June 2024, yielding over 12,100 survey responses.
The findings from the Hebrew University research team indicated a significant increase in gambling problems among Israeli men, particularly intensified by the events of October 7.
For numerous individuals, gambling emerged as a coping mechanism for fear, sorrow, and ongoing uncertainty brought about by the war. Our research found that men already struggling with emotional regulation were especially vulnerable,” remarked Mikulincer. “The trauma from October 7 heightened this risk, driving some towards gambling as a form of escape.”
In Israel, most forms of online gambling are illegal; however, state-sanctioned online sports betting exists. Many offshore casino websites continue to provide access to their games within Israel.
Researchers at Hebrew University noted that many Israelis turned to private methods of coping, including online gambling, to divert their minds. Yet, these coping strategies can quietly devolve into harmful addictions.
“Gambling, often perceived as a recreational activity, has transformed — for some men — into a maladaptive way to manage trauma,” the report outlined.
Impact of War
The Gaza War has fundamentally altered the region, with unprecedented destruction witnessed in Gaza. One significant aftermath is the lasting emotional trauma experienced by some Israelis, which has led to severe gambling-related issues.
As Israel marks the second anniversary of October 7, the study emphasizes how deeply the attack continues to influence daily life. It serves as a poignant reminder that the war’s impact is recorded not just in loss and memory but also in the hidden challenges faced by those still seeking ways to cope with their struggles,” concluded the Hebrew University study.