Legal Protection From Domestic Violence — Guide for Ethiopian-Israeli Women in Ma'alot-Tarshiha

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:

1. Contacting the Social Welfare Officer (Kabit'z) at your municipality's welfare office.
2. 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.