Missing Border Police Commando Found Dead on Haifa Beach

The body of Sergeant First Class Itai Parson, a 23-year-old commando with the National Counter-Terrorism Unit (YAMAM) and a resident of Haifa, was discovered on Saturday after a three-day intensive search. Parson had been missing since entering the sea at Students Beach in Haifa on Thursday afternoon.

Police confirmed Parson was found deceased. He is survived by his parents, two brothers, two sisters, and a partner. The search began Thursday evening after Parson entered the water and did not return to shore. Reports indicate he went diving without equipment, and a relative on a kayak alerted rescue forces when he failed to resurface.

The search operation involved Carmel District police, the maritime police, a police helicopter, Border Police officers, volunteers, and fire and rescue teams. Searches were conducted at sea, in the air, and along the coastline using boats, drones, and underwater search equipment.

On Friday, additional forces from the naval commando unit Shayetet 13 and the Navy's Underwater Operations Unit joined the search, which had continued through the night without success. Sergeant First Class Parson, may he rest in peace, initially enlisted in January 2023 for a pilot course before transferring to mandatory service in the Border Police in August 2023. After completing his combat training, he pursued a specialized course for undercover operatives, eventually being assigned to the observation and drone team within the YAMAM.

He enlisted for permanent service in the YAMAM in December 2025. "The Israel Police and the Border Police share in the family's grief and will continue to support them," a statement read.