Israeli Officer Killed in Lebanon Operational Accident, Family Mourns

Captain Eliab Haim Tzafllamos, a combat officer in the Givati Brigade's 603rd Battalion, was killed yesterday in an operational accident in southern Lebanon. Over 1,000 people attended his funeral at the military cemetery in Haifa on Friday.

The incident occurred Thursday afternoon when an IDF Humvee overturned during operational activity by IDF forces from the 7th Brigade in the Litani area. Captain Tzafllamos, 21, from Haifa, was killed, and three other soldiers were lightly injured. The IDF is investigating the incident.

Lieutenant Colonel Ran Kehani, commander of the 603rd Battalion, eulogized Tzafllamos as a brave, dedicated, and responsible commander who deeply cared for his soldiers. He noted Tzafllamos's exceptional leadership during operations in the Litani region and his commitment to his role, stating, "I lost a friend. The battalion in the IDF lost an outstanding fighter. The people of Israel lost one of its best sons."

Childhood friends Sahar and Guy remembered Tzafllamos as a person who always believed in his mission and led with values, noting his deep commitment to protecting the country, his family, and his friends. They recalled his desire to make a difference and his struggles before entering Gaza for the first time.

His aunt, Karin Mizrahi, described the loss as extinguishing their light, calling him a pure soul who always thought of others. His mother, Hali, spoke of the family's devastation, saying, "Our family is now broken." She remembered him as a sensitive, strong, and just individual who always sought meaningful service and wanted to protect the country and his loved ones. She pleaded with him to send them strength to cope with their profound grief.