Missing Soldier's Body Found After Extensive Search in Haifa

The body of 23-year-old soldier Itai Persson, who went missing three days prior, was discovered on Thursday at the student beach in Haifa. A large-scale search operation, involving numerous agencies and volunteers, concluded with the finding of Persson's remains. Persson, a Haifa resident, served in the Border Police's observation and drone unit within the National Counter-Terrorism Unit. The search, which ran around the clock, utilized drones, a police helicopter, boats, jet skis, divers, K-9 units, horses, and jeeps. Police and rescue services scoured the coastline, waters, and surrounding areas. Participants included soldiers, border guards, the Navy's Yaltam unit, fire and rescue services, the Haifa municipality, medics, and civilian volunteers.

Police reported that Persson was found deceased shortly after a new phase of the search began. The police expressed deep sorrow over the soldier's death, noting his service in the Border Police's naval commando unit. Persson had begun pilot training in January 2023 before transferring to mandatory service in the Border Police. He later trained as an undercover agent and was assigned to the observation and drone unit, transitioning to permanent service in December 2025.

Persson is survived by his parents, two brothers, two sisters, and his wife. The cause and circumstances of his death are currently under investigation by the police. The article also briefly mentions that the IDF recently increased its readiness on several fronts, with the air force and air defense receiving specific instructions in anticipation of potential escalation during a holiday.