Father of Slain IDF Officer Demands Accountability for 'Mistake'

By Эйтан Гликман

Translated & summarized from Vesty by baba

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Russian · 2 newsrooms covering

The father of IDF Captain Eliav Haim Tsapalamus, who died 11 days ago in a Hummer rollover accident in southern Lebanon, is demanding answers from the army. Beni Tsapalamus stated that his son's vehicle was traveling without an escort, contrary to regulations, to drop off a soldier on leave. He expressed frustration with the lack of explanation from the IDF, emphasizing that his son was a responsible officer. The IDF stated it shares the family's grief, is supporting them, and is investigating the incident, promising to share the findings.

The story in 6 lines · by baba

IDF Captain Eliav Haim Tsapalamus died in a Hummer rollover in southern Lebanon 11 days ago.
His father, Beni Tsapalamus, claims the vehicle was traveling without an escort, violating regulations.
The accident occurred while transporting a soldier on leave, not during an operational mission.
Three other soldiers sustained minor injuries in the crash.
The father is demanding a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible.
The IDF confirmed the incident is under investigation and pledged support to the family.

Eleven days after a fatal accident in southern Lebanon claimed the life of 21-year-old IDF Captain Eliav Haim Tsapalamus, his family has yet to receive an explanation from the military regarding the circumstances of the incident. "We don't understand how this happened," Beni Tsapalamus, Eliav's father, told Ynet on Monday, October 19. "Who sent a single vehicle with soldiers on a trip through Lebanon?"

Eliav died when an army Hummer SUV overturned near the Litani River. Three other soldiers sustained minor injuries in the crash. "They tell us to wait for the investigation results, and everything will become clear," the father continued. "So far, we know the Hummer with six soldiers was traveling without an escort, against all instructions and orders, just to drive a soldier who had leave and was supposed to go home. If my son had been killed on an operational mission, in a clash with terrorists, I would remain silent, but how can I be silent about something that is simply incomprehensible? Something is wrong here."

According to Beni, Eliav was meticulous about following rules and ensuring his soldiers' safety. "Someone made a mistake, sending the vehicle without an escort. When the SUV overturned, my son had no chance of survival. Too much time passed before help arrived," the grieving father added. "I want everything investigated in the smallest detail. Whoever is responsible must pay. This is necessary to prevent new, senseless losses. What happened to Eliav should not have happened. A swift and professional investigation is needed."

Beni Tsapalamus described Eliav as a "wonderful son, our firstborn," who was always helping others, tutoring children facing bullying, and secretly sending money to needy soldiers. Eliav was very close to his brother, who is about to begin his IDF service, and his 15-year-old sister. Friends and comrades from the 603rd Combat Engineering Battalion of the 7th Armored Brigade continue to visit Eliav's family. Some soldiers have tattooed his favorite motto: "If you truly want it, prove it!"

Eliav's girlfriend, Inbar Koren, also shared her grief. "He was my whole world," she said. "Our relationship began five years ago; it was true love. Eliav was not only my beloved but also my best friend, who helped me with everything. He had a heart of gold; he wanted me to be happy always. I have lost an amazing person, every moment with whom was a gift." Koren posted a farewell message on Instagram, thanking Eliav for making her the happiest person and asking him to watch over her and give her strength.

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