IDF Identifies Burial Site of Soldier Missing Since 1948 Jerusalem Convoy Operation

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has located the burial site of Private Yaakov Zrihan, a soldier who went missing during the 1948 "Harel" operation supply convoys to besieged Jerusalem. Zrihan, who fell in battle near Shaar HaGai on April 20, 1948, was found to be buried in a mass grave at the military cemetery in Kiryat Anavim alongside seven other soldiers from the same operation. This discovery concluded a 15-year investigation led by the IDF's Missing Persons Branch, which included extensive document analysis, witness interviews, ground surveys, and archaeological studies.

Yaakov Zrihan immigrated to Israel from Casablanca, Morocco, in December 1947 aboard the immigrant ship "HaPoretz" and joined the "Sneh" training group in Kibbutz Ramat HaKovesh. He enlisted in the transportation service on April 12, 1948, and served as a driver in the "Etzioni" Brigade. During the "Harel" operation, he participated in a large convoy of approximately 300 vehicles and armored transports attempting to reach Jerusalem. He was killed in combat and buried on April 22, 1948.

In 2024, a special investigative team was formed to resolve the mystery of Zrihan's burial place. The team’s findings were shared with his family, including his sisters, by Brigadier General Edna Ilia, head of the IDF’s Human Resources and Casualties Division. Ilia emphasized the IDF’s ongoing moral commitment to locating missing soldiers and supporting bereaved families. A state military ceremony will soon be held to place a memorial stone at Zrihan’s grave, marking the closure of this chapter after 78 years.

Yaakov’s sister, Yvonne Cohen, expressed profound relief and gratitude, noting the importance of finally having a grave where her children can recite the Kaddish prayer. The IDF continues its efforts to identify and recover the remains of soldiers whose burial sites remain unknown, underscoring its dedication to honoring fallen soldiers and their families.