Dozens of infants died, cause unknown: ultra-Orthodox maintain silence

An investigation by Shira Elk reveals that over the past decade, more than 40 infants from ultra-Orthodox families have died, and 30 have been hospitalized in critical condition. Almost none of the cases have been investigated by the police. The state ignores illegal daycare centers, and the community prevents autopsies. The author has collected over 70 reports of tragedies from 2015 to 2025.

Over the past decade, more than 40 infants from ultra-Orthodox families in Israel have died, and another 30 have been hospitalized in critical condition. Almost none of the cases have been the subject of a police investigation. The state turns a blind eye to illegal daycare centers, and authoritative figures in the community persuade parents not to consent to autopsies. An investigation by Shira Elk, who grew up in an ultra-Orthodox family, shows that behind the convenient diagnosis of 'sudden infant death syndrome' may lie violence or negligence. The author examined publications in ultra-Orthodox media and found over 70 reports of children who died or fell into critical condition at nannies, in family daycares, and nurseries from 2015 to 2025. Police data: from 2020 to 2025, 340 cases were opened regarding deaths of children under one year old, but only a few lead to autopsies. Experts warn that it is impossible to diagnose SIDS in Israel due to the lack of necessary procedures. The article documents a systemic problem but does not offer specific solutions.