IDF Tank Battalion Commander Killed in South Lebanon After Taking Over Injured Unit

The IDF said Friday morning that Lt. Col. Dor Gadalia Ben Shimhon, commander of the 52nd Battalion in the 401st Armored Brigade, was killed overnight in combat in southern Lebanon. He was one of four Israeli soldiers killed after a tank was hit during an operational mission in the area, while the names of the other three remained under military censorship.

Ben Shimhon took command of Battalion 52 on April 20, 2026, after the previous battalion commander was badly wounded in the fighting. He assumed the role during a difficult operational period and led his troops over the past two months in the northern arena.

According to the IDF, Ben Shimhon rose through the Armored Corps within the 401st Brigade and held several significant command roles. He served as a field commander and later as chief of staff to the commander of the Northern Command during Operation Northern Arrows. After completing a staff and command course, he returned to operational service and was appointed battalion commander.

The army said Ben Shimhon stood out for his professionalism and leadership, and that when needed he “stepped up to the burden” and took command at a time of intense combat. He was killed while leading his soldiers on the front line. He leaves behind a wife and two daughters.

Ben Shimhon came from a family with a strong combat service tradition. He and four of his brothers served in the 401st Brigade, and another brother served in the Golani Brigade. His wife serves as a combat officer in the Combat Intelligence and Border Corps. The IDF and the security establishment expressed condolences to his family.