Elite Yamam Counter-Terror Officer Found Dead in Haifa

The body of 23-year-old Itai Perason, a Yamam counter-terrorism unit officer, was discovered in Haifa after he went missing. Perason had reportedly gone to the Student Beach in Haifa on Thursday afternoon, and contact was lost that evening, prompting a search. Israeli police and the Border Police (MAGAV) confirmed the discovery of his body after several days of searching. The cause of death has not yet been released by authorities, and an investigation into the circumstances is ongoing.

Perason began his military service in January 2023, initially training as a pilot before transferring to MAGAV in August of the same year. He subsequently completed a special course for "Mist'arvim" undercover operatives and was later assigned to the surveillance and unmanned aerial vehicle unit of Yamam, an elite Israeli police unit specializing in counter-terrorism and complex operations. He transitioned to permanent service in Yamam in December 2025.

At the time of his death, Perason was 23 years old. He is survived by his parents, two brothers, two sisters, and his girlfriend. The police and MAGAV have extended their condolences to his family and pledged continued support.