Hundreds Attend Funeral of Benyahu Malt, Killed While Rescuing Attack Victims Near West Bank Settlement

Hundreds gathered on Friday at the Gilad Farm cemetery to mourn Staff Sergeant (res.) Benyahu Malt, z"l, who was fatally shot during a terror attack near the settlement after rushing to aid a group of hikers under assault by terrorists. Malt, 32, was an active reservist, a member of the Gilad Farm security team, and responsible for agriculture in the community. He was killed while participating in rescue efforts.

The funeral was attended by prominent figures including Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu, Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan, Minister Orit Strook, Ministers Itzhak Vissaroff, Amichai Shikli, Ze'ev Elkin, and Knesset members Amit Halevi and Limor Son Har-Melech, alongside family, friends, and local residents. Malt is survived by his wife Esther and their two daughters.

In an emotional farewell, Esther Malt recalled their 14 years together and her belief that he would always return from dangerous situations, saying, "You always came back, but this time you didn’t come back at all." She expressed hope for justice and revenge against the terrorists and vowed to find strength to carry on.

Rabbi Boaz Malt, Benyahu’s father, eulogized his son and called on the government and Knesset members to dismantle the Palestinian Authority, which he labeled a terrorist organization, urging immediate action rather than waiting for another war. Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu also condemned the attack, stating that the terrorists should face severe consequences.

Benyahu’s mother, Segula Malt, recounted that her son had been targeted by gunfire since childhood, including an incident in first grade during the establishment of the Adi Ad settlement. She concluded with a prayer for divine justice and the completion of Israel’s redemption.