Fallen Officer's Family Runs in His Memory at Annual Druze Memorial Race

The family of Major Jalaa Ibrahim, who was killed in combat in Rafah on July 7, 2024, at the age of 25, will participate together in the "Bishvil HaBanayim" (For the Sake of the Sons) race this Friday. This annual event commemorates fallen Druze soldiers and has become a tradition for his family.

Three of Ibrahim's brothers, Sergeant Major Ala Ibrahim (48), Sergeant Major Duaa Ibrahim (46), and Lieutenant Colonel (Res.) Bahaa Ibrahim (43), along with their 67-year-old mother, Safia, will run in his memory. "I run in his place," their mother stated, emphasizing that for them, the race is a way to continue the path of her youngest son, who was a decorated officer and a bright student.

Ala Ibrahim shared that remembering fallen soldiers is the only thing left for the families, and it's crucial to teach the younger generation about their heroism. He finds meaning when strangers recognize him as Jalaa's brother, seeing it as a way to keep his memory alive. Jalaa, originally from Sajur, was a gifted student who served in the Combat Engineering Corps, rising to company commander before being injured and returning to duty.

Duaa Ibrahim expressed the profound personal impact of the race, noting that while she had run for friends before, she never imagined running for her brother. Last year, approximately 200 soldiers from his brigade participated in the event to honor him. Bahaa Ibrahim described the race as a blend of grief and joy, unity and solidarity, emphasizing resilience and moving forward.

The family draws inspiration from Jalaa's own words shortly before his death: "If we don't do it, no one will do it in our place." They will run with his memory guiding them throughout the race.