IDF Captain David Hazut Killed in Hezbollah Clash Buried in Ashkelon

Captain David Hazut, 21, a company commander in the Golani Brigade's 12th Battalion, was laid to rest Sunday afternoon at the military cemetery in Ashkelon. Hazut was killed during a clash with a Hezbollah terrorist in southern Lebanon around 2 a.m. while his unit was conducting a search operation near the village of Deir Sirian. The terrorist opened fire, killing Hazut and lightly wounding another soldier. Israeli forces later located and eliminated the attacker in a nearby building.

Hazut, a graduate of Ort Afridar school in Ashkelon, lost his father at age 16 and is survived by his mother Galit and sister Oria. Approximately 2,000 people attended the funeral. In her eulogy, Galit recalled his dedication, quoting him saying, "Mom, I’m only Golani," and described his commitment to his soldiers, including efforts to improve their living conditions. She pleaded for an end to the ongoing conflict, saying, "I passed through Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and lost in Lebanon."

Hazut’s partner, Ron, also spoke emotionally at the funeral, highlighting his caring nature and devotion to his country and loved ones. She described their personal moments and expressed disbelief at having to say goodbye.

Gadi Eizenkot, former IDF Chief of Staff and current candidate for prime minister, attended the funeral and delivered remarks. He praised Hazut’s leadership and commitment, reflecting on the pain of losing a young soldier and urging society to honor their sacrifice by striving to be better and choosing life.

The funeral underscored the heavy toll of Israel’s security challenges and the personal losses endured by families and communities amid ongoing hostilities with Hezbollah and other adversaries.