Elite Counter-Terrorism Officer Found Dead After Disappearing at Haifa Beach

Sergeant Major Itay Parson, a fighter with the elite Yamam counter-terrorism unit, was found dead on a beach in Haifa on Saturday, September 26th, after a nearly three-day search. Parson, 23, had gone to the Students Beach on Thursday afternoon and lost contact with family and friends. His disappearance triggered a large-scale search operation involving police, Border Police, volunteers, drones, a police helicopter, boats, jet skis, horses, and jeeps.

Parson, a resident of Haifa, had recently enlisted in permanent service with the Yamam in December 2023. He had previously served in the Border Police and completed a special forces course. He is survived by his parents, two brothers, two sisters, and a partner.

The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation. The police and Border Police authorized the release of his identity following his discovery. The Mayor of Haifa, Yona Yahav, expressed his condolences, stating, "The heart breaks upon receiving the difficult news of the death of Itay Parson, a son of Haifa. For almost three days, we all hoped and prayed that Itay would be found safe and sound. Unfortunately, the search ended today with the most difficult news of all."

Yahav also thanked the city's teams who participated in the search efforts in full cooperation with all forces on the ground. The police commissioner and the commander of the coastal district were present at the scene to assess the search efforts.