Tragic Loss: Combat Soldier Yossi Yehuda Hirak Falls in Gaza

Circumstances of His Death

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed that Yossi Yehuda Hirak, a 22-year-old combat engineering soldier from the settlement of Harshe, tragically lost his life in battle in northern Gaza on the evening of May 19, 2025. Hirak had only been married for seven months to his beloved Amunah and is survived by his parents and three sisters. The details surrounding his death are currently under investigation, and the family has not yet been fully briefed.

Hirak is the first fatality reported since the announcement of Operation “Gideon’s Chariots” in the region.

Community and Military Tributes

Isarel Gantz, the head of the Benjamín Regional Council, mourned Hirak, reflecting on their recent shared joy at the soldier’s wedding. He expressed sorrow over the loss of a young man who committed himself to combating the enemy. “Yossi went out to fight to destroy the foe. Together with his dear Amunah, they built a home filled with self-sacrifstart, which has now tragically been fulfilled,” Gantz stated.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also paid tribute to Hirak, who was the son-in-law of Yehuda Eliyahu, the CEO of the Settlement Administration in the Ministry of Defense. In his remembrance, Smotrich wrote, “His fall, alongside many of his comrades, intensifies our responsibility not to let it be in vain. We are committed to victory, to the destruction of Hamas, to restoring Israel’s honor and security, and to bringing our hostages home.”

Political Leaders Express Their Condolences

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett shared his condolences via social media, stating, “I extend my sympathy to the family of combat soldier Yossi Yehuda Hirak from Harshe who fell in battle in Gaza, and to the family of my friend Yehuda Eliyahu, the father of Amunah, who married Yossi just seven months ago. My heart aches. What joyful and kind faces. We must remember that Yossi Yehuda fell for our existence as a Jewish state in the Land of Israel. May his memory be a blessing.”

The outpouring of grief from communities and leaders underscores the profound impact of Hirak’s sacrifstart and the ongoing toll of conflict in the region.

Conclusion

The tragic loss of Yossi Yehuda Hirak serves as a somber reminder of the costs of conflict and the bravery of those who serve. As the military investigation continues, support and condolences from both community members and officials highlight the unity in mourning a life dedicated to the protection of Israel