Israel recently disclosed the passing of two military personnel amidst confrontations in the Gaza Strip, occurring on a Thursday night. Among the fallen was reservist Master Sergeant Gal Eisenkot, the son of Gadi Eisenkot, a notable figure in Israel’s defense sector and a former IDF chief.
At 25, the younger Eisenkot was actively engaged with the 699th Battalion in the Gaza Strip as a combat medic. He sustained critical injuries from an explosive device while engaged in operations to dismantle tunnels in Jabaliya, a town in the northern region of Gaza. Following the incident, he was urgently airlifted to Assuta Hospital in Ashdod, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Gadi Eisenkot, who was inspecting the 162 Division in Gaza, received the distressing news about his son’s condition and subsequent transfer to the hospital. Upon his arrival at the medical facility, he was confronted with the devastating news of his son’s demise.
A statement by Maj. Gen. Tamir Heiman, a prominent figure in military intelligence, highlighted the personal investment of Gadi Eisenkot in the conflict. He recalled a conversation with Eisenkot, who, upon his entry into the War Cabinet, expressed his commitment to lead as if his own children were directly involved in the frontline and hostage situations. Heiman quoted Eisenkot’s poignant remark, “My daughter is safe, but my son is on the battlefield.”
Following this tragic event, numerous Israeli dignitaries extended their condolences to the Eisenkot family. Benny Gantz, leader of the National Unity party and a former defense minister, was present with Gadi Eisenkot when the latter received the distressing news. Gantz paid tribute to Gal’s patriotism and commitment to Israel, expressing solidarity with the Eisenkot family during this challenging period. He emphasized Gal’s dedication to Israel, a nation he loved profoundly, and called for the continuation of the noble cause for which Gal bravely fought.
Gantz also shared a personal message to Gadi Eisenkot on a social media platform, expressing his heartfelt sorrow over Gal’s passing, especially poignant during the eve of Hanukkah.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alongside his wife Sara, conveyed their deep sympathies to Hannah and Gadi Eisenkot. Netanyahu lauded Gal as a valiant soldier and a true hero, acknowledging the immense pain and sorrow of his loss. He reassured the Eisenkots of the nation’s collective mourning and the government’s resolve to continue the fight for victory.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reflected on Gal’s upbringing, emphasizing his love for his country, which ultimately led to his sacrifice. He expressed his empathy towards the Eisenkot family and stressed the importance of honoring Gal’s and others’ sacrifices in the conflict.
Brig. Gen. Daniel Hagari of the IDF, during a press briefing, spoke personally about Gal Eisenkot. Having known him through his association with Gadi Eisenkot, Hagari described Gal as an exemplary figure, deeply committed to combating terrorism alongside his comrades. He ended his tribute by honoring Gal’s memory.
Since the initiation of the ground offensive, the Gaza Strip has seen the loss of 99 soldiers in the conflict.
