Officer's Family Demands Answers From IDF After Fatal Lebanon Incident

The family of officer Eliab Haim Tzfalamus, who was killed when an armored personnel carrier overturned in southern Lebanon, is demanding answers from the IDF regarding the circumstances of the incident. His father claims the vehicle was traveling without escort, contrary to regulations, stating, "Someone failed in their duty." The IDF confirmed the incident is under investigation.

About a week and a half after Captain Eliab Haim Tzfalamus, 21, died in the APC rollover in southern Lebanon, his family is seeking explanations from the military, asserting the tragedy was preventable. "We cannot understand what happened to us. It is clear there was a major failure that caused our son to die," his father, Ben, told Ynet. He questioned the decision to allow a single APC to travel in Lebanon, especially to transport a soldier who was supposed to be going home. "If my son had died in an operational incident, I wouldn't be talking, but like this? A single APC traveling in Lebanon? It's inconceivable," he stated.

The father also alleged that rescue forces were delayed. "Someone failed in their duty, allowing the APC to travel alone, and when it overturned, he simply had no chance to be saved." He emphasized the family's demand for a swift and professional investigation to prevent similar occurrences.

Tzfalamus served in the 603rd Engineering Battalion of the 7th Brigade. He is survived by his parents, two siblings, and his girlfriend, Inbar, who described the moment she realized he was gone: "When I saw the number of officers here, I understood the worst had happened. I cannot process the tragedy that has befallen me and all of us."

The IDF stated, "The IDF shares in the sorrow of the bereaved family and the wounded and will continue to accompany them. The matter is under investigation and has not yet been presented to the bereaved family. When concluded, it will be presented to them transparently."