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Legal Protection From Domestic Violence — Guide for Ethiopian-Israeli Women in Kiryat Malakhi
Any woman suffering domestic violence can receive a protection order the same day — regardless of visa status, length of marriage, or financial situation. The state must provide emergency housing and living expenses.
About Kiryat Malakhi
Kiryat Malakhi is one of Israel's cities with a particularly high proportion of Israeli-Ethiopian community members relative to total population. The community is a central part of the city's character — visibly present in education, commerce and community activity — alongside significant demand for updated housing options.
Why Ethiopian-Israeli Women Face Special Barriers
An inter-ministerial expert committee established following a series of murders of Ethiopian-origin women (2014–2020) identified systemic failures: language barriers, cultural shame, fear of police, and community isolation all prevent women from seeking timely help.
The Protection Order — Fastest Legal Tool
A protection order (Tzav Hagana) is a court order requiring the abuser to vacate the home, maintain distance, and cease all contact. It can be obtained the same day by:
- Contacting the Social Welfare Officer (Kabit'z) at your municipality's welfare office.
- Applying directly at a Family Court — no lawyer needed for an emergency order.
The order can include eviction of the abuser (even if the home is in his name), prohibition on any contact, and temporary child-custody arrangements.
Emergency Resources
- National domestic-violence hotline: 118 (24/7, Amharic available)
- Police: 100
- WIZO shelters: 1-800-500-550
- Na'amat shelters: 1-800-505-360
- TEBEKA (legal): 1-800-20-20-16
Financial Safety Net During Separation
When leaving, you are entitled to emergency housing, alimony (if children are involved), and property rights over any assets accumulated during marriage. Visa status does not affect these rights for Israeli residents.
About Kiryat Malakhi
Related rights
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Right to an Interpreter in Court and Government Offices
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Daycare Subsidy for Working Families
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Employment Rights for People with Disabilities
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