Bereaved Father Criticizes IDF Rules of Engagement After Son's Death

Hagai Louber, father of the late Sergeant Major Yonatan Louber, spoke out on Wednesday about the controversy surrounding the IDF's rules of engagement, particularly concerning collateral damage. Louber stated on 'Galei Yisrael' radio that the current approach forces soldiers into situations where they must risk their lives to minimize harm to enemy civilians or combatants, and to prevent the destruction of enemy homes.

He recounted the loss of his son, Yonatan, who was killed during a targeted operation. Louber explained that his son and his unit were sent on a surgical mission within homes and alleys, where they were fired upon from elevated positions in buildings that were later demolished. Louber emphasized that he holds no claims against Yonatan's direct commanders, whom he praised for their professionalism and dedication to protecting their soldiers' lives.

However, Louber attributed the tragedy to the "tools" and missions provided to the soldiers. He believes his son was "collateral damage" resulting from "unfortunate decisions," asserting that the area should have been leveled before the operation commenced. Louber, a bereaved father, expressed the ongoing grief of his family and the absence of Yonatan in his children's lives, stating that this damage could have been prevented.