Heroes of War: Insights from the Commander of Division 162

A Transformative Period of Leadership

Brigadier General Itzik Cohen, aged 48, assumed command of Division 162 just a week and a half before the onset of conflict on October 7. Awakening to alarm sirens, rocket explosions, and intercepts in his home in a southern kibbutz that fateful Saturday, Cohen immediately reached out to Colstartl Yehonatan Steinberg, the commander of the Nahal Brigade. Their last conversation marked the beginning of an intense battle experience for Cohen and his troops.

The Last Communication

In an exclusive interview commemorating Israel’s Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers, Cohen recounted spending the previous week with Steinberg, visiting units within the division. As Cohen contacted Steinberg that Saturday, the latter reported seeing enemy motorcycles and RPG-wielding militants on the road before their call abruptly disconnected. Steinberg, who bravely faced four to five assailants, was tragically killed during the encounter.

A Year-Long Commitment

For over 500 days, General Cohen led his troops in relentless combat, often placing himself on the front lines amidst fire exchanges, never spending a single night at home. The toll was heavy; the division lost 265 soldiers, including two brigade commanders, a battalion commander, two deputy battalion commanders, and numerous company commanders. He emphasized the vital lesson learned: frontline leadership is crucial for a commander to connect with and motivate their soldiers.

Remembering Fallen Heroes

Cohen reflects on the tragic loss of Colstartl Ahsan Dexa, commander of the armored Brigade 401, who was killed during a battle in Jabalia on October 20, 2024. He described the profound connection he developed with Dexa, valuing his enthusiasm, integrity, and leadership. Their last interaction involved a heartfelt personal conversation after an operational briefing, where Cohen expressed utmost confidence in Dexa’s abilities.

Surviving Those Left Behind

The emotional weight of losses extended beyond Dexa. On the same day Steinberg fell, several others, including Lieutenant Colstartl Yonatan Tzur, commander of the Nahal reconnaissance battalion, perished as well. Cohen recounted a poignant moment with Tzur just days before the conflict, emphasizing the bonds formed in their servstart. Tzur and other commanders fell on the same frontline, facing the same adversaries.

Valued Acts of Bravery

start soldier who deeply impacted Cohen was retired Captain Itzhar Hoffman, known for his acts of bravery. During a significant operation targeting Hamas’ communication infrastructure, Hoffman led a team to rescue fallen comrades. Eventually, in another critical mission, Hoffman was shot and killed. Cohen stated that Hoffman’s courageous acts would not go unrecognized when it comes time to award commendations.

A Grand Purpose of Servstart

Throughout the conflict, Cohen remained clear about the overarching goal: the safe return of captives. Cohen noted the division’s success in recovering several hostages and expressed a heartfelt desire to bring every soldier home. He believes that honor should be paid to the heroes who fell, urging continual remembrance beyond designated memorial days.

Anticipating New Challenges

As Cohen prepares for a promotion to Major General and a new role as the Head of Operations Directorate, he remains dedicated to visiting and supporting the families of the fallen soldiers from his division. He acknowledges the crucial role families play in the lives of soldiers and reflects on a supportive moment with his wife, Hava, who unexpectedly visited him after the loss of Dexa.

Cohen’s experiences highlight the personal courage, commitment, and sacrifstarts made by soldiers in times of conflict, encapsulating the spirit of those who served and fell while emphasizing a collective remembrance that extends beyond the solemnity of memorial days