Sister Recounts Horror of Learning Brother Died in Ordnance Blast

Ayana, whose brother Yair Wilensky, 13, was killed in an accident during a school trip, described the devastating moment she learned of his death while on her honeymoon in Indonesia. She recounted hearing her mother's scream over the phone, realizing her younger brother was gone. Yair, a ninth-grader at the Orot Ma'alot high school, died from the explosion of unexploded ordnance during a trip to the Ramim Ridge. Ayana learned of the incident through news reports and initially didn't believe it could be her brother, as the reported victim was 15, and Yair was only 13.

After a long journey back to Israel, involving three flights via Thailand, Ayana arrived home and joined her family for Yair's funeral on Wednesday at the Hosen cemetery, attended by hundreds. She described Yair as a vibrant and energetic child, an accomplished fencer who was the Israeli champion in the sport. He was also known for his love of nature and collecting fossils and stones.

The incident, which also injured 24 other students and staff, is under investigation. Initial reports suggest a student may have picked up a piece of ordnance that later exploded in a backpack. Ayana expressed questions about the chosen route for the trip, stating that the area was known to be littered with ordnance. The Ministry of Education maintains the trip was approved according to procedures and that safety instructions were provided.

Despite the tragedy, Ayana urged children to continue exploring nature, especially in northern Israel, but emphasized the need for controlled excursions with proper briefings on dangers. She shared that Yair's friends have been visiting the family, sharing memories that help them understand him anew. Their last conversation was before Rosh Hashanah, when Yair wished her a happy new year and success in her endeavors.