At least one in four women experienced violent behavior from partner or relative, study finds

A comprehensive survey in Israel reveals a deeply concerning prevalence of domestic violence, with over one in four women reporting experiences of violent behavior from a partner or relative. The "Great Women's Survey 2026," conducted by The Israel Women’s Network (IWN), found that approximately 27% of women, equating to at least 900,000 individuals, have faced such abuse.

The survey's findings extend beyond physical assault, highlighting a spectrum of controlling behaviors. Ten percent of women reported experiencing physical injury inflicted by a partner or family member. Alarmingly, 12% reported threats or the use of physical force for sexual purposes. Furthermore, 10% of women experienced financial control by a partner or family member, and 17% reported obsessive jealousy and surveillance tactics aimed at control.

Tomer Maron, head of research at the Women's Lobby, emphasized that violence often escalates gradually. "Femicide is the tip of the iceberg," Maron stated. "The violence begins much earlier. We identify it in jealousy, surveillance, threats, and extortion with money, in effect, in every systematic undermining of the sense of security."

The survey also probed public attitudes toward state responsibility. A significant majority, 81% of women, reject the notion that domestic violence is a private family matter. Moreover, 61% believe the police have the capability and responsibility for prevention, with one-third labeling the police as the primary body responsible for intervening and enforcing protective orders. The Welfare Ministry and the Israeli government were ranked second and third, respectively, in terms of perceived responsibility.

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Femicide is the tip of the iceberg. The violence begins much earlier. We identify it in jealousy, surveillance, threats, and extortion with money, in effect, in every systematic undermining of the sense of security