Grieving Father Questions IDF Over Son's Death in Hebron Attack

Amnon Suilem, the father of Sergeant Yuval Shi Suilem, who was killed in a recent attack in Hebron, has voiced deep distress and raised critical questions regarding the circumstances of his son's death. "They took a diamond from us, they took my strength, they took my soul," Suilem stated in a poignant interview, describing the immense loss.

Suilem expressed strong criticism towards the IDF, alleging "very serious military failures" and demanding a thorough investigation into the incident. He revealed that his son, who served in the Home Front Command's search and rescue unit, was stationed in a forward position in a dangerous area of Hebron, contrary to the family's understanding that his role would be more distant from the front lines. The father also claimed that Yuval had reported malfunctions with his weapon prior to the attack, and that these issues persisted even during the incident itself.

Further concerns were raised about the positioning of the soldiers' post. Suilem described the location as strategically flawed, with limited visibility that allowed attackers to approach undetected from behind. He suggested that the structure and surrounding terrain contributed to the soldiers being surprised. Following the attack, a structure near the post was demolished, though Suilem is unsure of the exact timing.

Beyond the military aspects, Suilem shared personal reflections on his son's character, remembering Yuval as a devoted and kind individual with a "very high soul." He also articulated a harsh demand for the state: to expel the close relatives of the terrorists responsible for the attack from Israel, believing this would serve as a deterrent. Suilem warned that if authorities do not act, he and others might take matters into their own hands.

Despite his severe criticism, Suilem acknowledged his son's bravery during the attack, stating that Yuval attempted to save a comrade and repel the terrorists, potentially preventing a more severe incident. He also questioned the origin of the weapons used by the attackers, who he believes were heavily armed. The family is awaiting comprehensive answers from the IDF regarding the weapon's condition, the soldiers' deployment, and the nature of the post.