IDF Appoints New Commander for Yoav Brigade in Southern Israel

Colonel G. assumed command of the Yoav Brigade in southern Israel on Monday, during a ceremony held at the Uziel base. He succeeds Colonel A., who served in the role for the past two years and is concluding his military service. The ceremony was attended by Southern Command chief Major General Yaniv Asor and "Edom" formation commander Brigadier General Israel Friedler.

Colonel G. is a graduate of the "Bnei David" institutions in Eli, a father of six, and resides in the south. His military career includes various command positions in the Givati Brigade and across the IDF, including commander of the 585th Desert Reconnaissance Battalion and operations officer for the Southern Command.

On October 7, 2023, while on leave, Colonel G. learned of the Hamas attack and joined the fighting in civilian clothes, armed only with a handgun. He fought alongside Sergeant Major Ran Guili, who was later killed in action, assisting in the rescue of civilians and the wounded near Re'im. Colonel G. was wounded during the fighting, and due to his civilian attire, initial responding forces did not recognize him as an officer. A visible tzitzit (a ritualistic fringe worn by Jewish men) he wore helped identify him and prevent friendly fire.

Following a period of rehabilitation, he returned to service and continued his command track. During the handover ceremony, Colonel G. pledged to dedicate all his efforts to defending the residents of the area, stating, "I stand before you with awe and a deep sense of mission... to dedicate all my strength and even sacrifice my life for the defense of the sector and this beautiful part of the land."

Brigadier General Friedler praised Colonel G. as a "combat commander, thoughtful, learning, and deepening," emphasizing that his experience since October 7 has prepared him for the role.