Mother of Fallen Golani Commander Vows to Support Neglected Soldiers

Galit Hazut, mother of Captain David Hazut who was killed in combat in southern Lebanon on Sunday, shared her grief and determination in a morning interview on Kan 11's "Kalman Liverman" program. David, 21, from Ashkelon, served as a platoon commander in the Golani Brigade's 12th Battalion and was killed during a clash with Hezbollah militants near Deir Sirian, about 5 kilometers from the Israeli border. This incident marked the first casualty since the recent Israel-Lebanon framework agreement signed on Friday, which includes the start of IDF withdrawal from southern Lebanon while maintaining forces as long as Hezbollah remains armed.

Galit described David as a devoted soldier who cared deeply for his troops, often using his own money to provide for soldiers lacking basic necessities such as proper bedding and dining areas. She recounted how David was troubled by the poor conditions his soldiers endured during their deployments and vowed to continue his mission by ensuring no soldier would suffer such neglect. "I promised him on his grave that I will continue his path," she said, emphasizing her commitment to support families in need and improve soldiers' welfare.

David had lost his father five years earlier and was determined to serve in Golani from the start, despite his mother's pleas to consider other units. He planned to marry his partner after his military service and had expressed interest in joining the Shin Bet security service. Galit recalled their last conversation just hours before his death, highlighting his happiness and resilience despite the dangers he faced.

The fatal encounter occurred around 2 a.m. when David's unit entered a suspicious building and was fired upon at close range by a Hezbollah operative. Another soldier was lightly wounded in the incident. Following the attack, IDF forces conducted searches and retaliatory strikes in the area. Galit vowed to dedicate her life to ensuring that soldiers receive the support and dignity they deserve, promising to provide weekly aid packages to families in need.

David was laid to rest at the military cemetery in Ashkelon, survived by his mother and sister. His death has deeply affected the Golani Brigade and the Israeli public, underscoring ongoing tensions along the Lebanon border despite recent diplomatic agreements.