IDF Air Force Cadet Turned Elite Police Fighter Drowns in Haifa

First Sergeant Itai Peretzon, 23, a Yamam counter-terrorism unit officer from Haifa, drowned last Thursday while diving off Students Beach. His body was recovered on Saturday after a three-day search involving police, drones, a helicopter, boats, and jet skis. The circumstances of his drowning are unclear; his body was found on the seabed approximately 800 meters from shore. Peretzon began his military service in January 2023, initially in an air force course before joining the elite Mistarvim unit of the Border Police. After his regular service, he enlisted for a permanent position in the Yamam, serving in the observation and drone team. He was scheduled to celebrate his birthday in three months and later leave police service. Friends described him as charismatic, talented, humorous, and handsome, noting his participation in the "Ninja Israel" competition years ago, where he sustained a shoulder injury. His former homeroom teacher remembered him as a thoughtful, goal-oriented student who excelled academically and was deeply connected to his family. The Haifa municipality and his former school expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the young officer.