Family Launches Synagogue Project Honoring Fallen IDF Captain Neriya Zisk
Captain (res.) Neriya Zisk, a 24-year-old tank platoon commander from Moshav Yitzhak, was killed in combat in northern Gaza on December 27, 2023, during the Iron Swords operation. He served in the 52nd Armored Battalion "Bokaim" of the 401st "Iron Trails" Brigade. Nearly two years after his death, his family is spearheading a crowdfunding campaign to build a synagogue named "Mishkan Neriya" in his memory, located in the Karmi Hendiv neighborhood of Kiryat Malachi. The synagogue aims to embody Neriya's values of unity and inclusiveness, welcoming people from all sectors, secular, traditional, religious, and ultra-Orthodox.
Neriya was the third son of Galit and Israel Zisk, described by his family as a kind, sensitive, and dependable individual who led his soldiers with both professionalism and care. After completing his mandatory service, he worked in agriculture before traveling through South and Central America. When the October 7, 2023 terror attacks and subsequent war broke out, Neriya immediately returned to Israel to volunteer for combat, despite not being officially called up for reserve duty.
During fighting in the Darg Tufah neighborhood of Gaza City, Neriya was fatally shot by a sniper while attempting to fix a tank track under fire. His platoon commander was moderately wounded trying to rescue him, and the tank crew managed to evacuate both under hostile conditions. In tribute, the Jerusalem-based choir "Perachei Yerushalayim" composed the song "My Brother from the Armor," based on family accounts, celebrating Neriya's bravery and character.
His father Israel emphasized Neriya's deep commitment to defending Israel, saying, "Neriya came back from the edge of the world to protect the homeland, that says it all." The family calls for mutual respect and unity in Israel, underscoring the importance of safeguarding the country. As of July 2026, the synagogue structure is erected but still requires 30,000 shekels to complete the project.
