Grieving Parents Demand Answers on Son's Death in Lebanon

The parents of Captain Eliab Haim Tzafalamus, who was killed in an operational accident in Lebanon, are demanding answers from the IDF regarding the circumstances of his death. Chali and Beni Tzafalamus claim their son died during an unauthorized administrative trip, and that his extraction was delayed. They are seeking to understand who was aware of the trip, who made errors, and who will be held accountable.

According to the parents, Captain Tzafalamus, an engineering officer in the 7th Brigade, was killed in an incident that was "riddled with failures." They allege the mission was not approved, only one Humvee was dispatched, and there was a delay in extracting their son after the accident. "My son was killed because of an administrative, unapproved trip," stated Beni Tzafalamus, adding that the 20-minute delay in evacuation with "six and a half tons on his head" had a known outcome.

Chali Tzafalamus expressed her anguish, stating, "I want to know what was there. Did he die on the spot? He didn't die on the spot? I don't have those answers." She described her son as an outstanding officer and a devoted commander who was deeply committed to his soldiers, noting that families approached them during the shiva to thank him for his secret assistance over the years.

The parents are also directing their anger towards the command echelon, which they feel has not provided adequate responses. Beni Tzafalamus recounted asking the battalion and brigade commanders if they were aware of the trip, with the battalion commander reportedly denying knowledge. The brigade commander allegedly cited a shortage of personnel as the reason for the incident. "Unfortunately, I have a shortage of personnel," the brigade commander reportedly said, a response that did not satisfy the father, who suggested that in such a situation, the commander should inform the Chief of Staff that he cannot operate the battalion.

The IDF stated in response, "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."