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Legal Protection From Domestic Violence — Guide for Ethiopian-Israeli Women in Rehovot
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 Rehovot
Rehovot has a long-established Israeli-Ethiopian community, with a significant concentration in the Kiryat Moshe neighbourhood. Most of the neighbourhood's residents are from the community, and it is currently going through urban-renewal processes — driving demand for additional housing options in the city and surrounding area.
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 Rehovot
Related rights
Child Allowance — Full Rights 2026
Every child up to age 18 is entitled to child allowance. 2026: 162 ILS/month for the first child, increasing with each additional child.
Right to an Interpreter in Court and Government Offices
Anyone who does not speak Hebrew is entitled to an interpreter in any legal proceeding — a constitutional right. Government offices (BTL, Interior Ministry, Aliyah Ministry) must also provide translation. The right is free and at state expense.
Daycare Subsidy for Working Families
Subsidized daycare (ages 3 months – 3 years) for families where both parents work. Amount calibrated by combined income.
Employment Rights for People with Disabilities
The Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law requires employers to make reasonable accommodations. Entitlements include a mobility allowance, tax benefits, and NII cost reduction.