Israeli Soldier Oriah Marries Two Years After Gaza Sniper Injury, Calls It True Victory

Oriah Hanimov, a 23-year-old Israeli soldier, married his partner Avital exactly two years after being wounded by sniper fire in Gaza. The wedding took place on July 5, 2024, the same date he was injured, symbolizing a personal and national victory over those who seek to destroy the Jewish people. In an interview with C14, Hanimov described the incident where a sniper bullet passed just a centimeter from a major artery in his leg, a near-miraculous escape that led to a nine-month hospitalization and ongoing physical challenges.

Hanimov was serving in the Nahal Brigade's 932nd Battalion when his unit entered Gaza at the start of the recent conflict. On the morning of July 5, 2024, while positioned at a post, he was targeted by a sniper. His platoon commander rescued him under fire, and he was evacuated by helicopter to Tel HaShomer hospital. Despite a severe hip joint injury and lasting pain and mobility limitations, Hanimov has made significant progress in his recovery.

During his rehabilitation, Hanimov met Avital through mutual friends. She supported him unwaveringly despite the difficulties posed by his injury. The couple’s wedding also honored the memory of Hanimov’s close friend and fellow soldier, Staff Sergeant Yonatan Aharon Greenblatt, who was killed two weeks after Hanimov’s injury. The wedding ceremony included a tribute to Greenblatt, whose Hebrew date of death coincided with the night of the wedding.

Currently, Hanimov studies at a yeshiva in Karnei Shomron and dedicates himself to rebuilding his life and physical strength. He emphasized that his recovery is a testament to willpower and resilience, stating, "This wedding is the true victory for me and for our people; we choose life exactly where they tried to stop us."