IDF Artillery Commander Yovel Ezra Killed in West Bank Attack to Be Laid to Rest

Lieutenants from the Havat Gilad quick response team, alongside representatives from the settlement and the Samaria Regional Council, will attend the funeral of Lieutenant Colonel Yovel Ezra, who was killed in a shooting attack near Havat Gilad over the weekend. Ezra, 27, from Herzliya, served as a battery commander in the 411th Battalion of the Artillery Corps. Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan eulogized him, saying, "Lieutenant Colonel Yovel Ezra gave his life defending the land; we are one people."

Ezra lived in Herzliya with his fiancée, Timor Lavi, whom he recently proposed to, with their wedding planned for June 9, 2027. His family shared that he intended to start a family and complete his military service. He enlisted in the Artillery Corps in 2017 and held various command roles. At the time of his death, he was set to begin serving as deputy battalion commander in September. His mother highlighted his deep connection with his soldiers, noting his passion for mentoring new recruits and shaping them into fighters, many of whom advanced to command positions. Since his death, the family has received numerous messages from soldiers who served under him, praising his leadership and care.

Ezra earned a bachelor's degree through the Tactical Command College and began commanding a company two years ago. He fought in the battles of Be'eri on October 7 and later participated in operations in Gaza and other sectors. His mother recalled their conversations, where he reassured her by saying, "It will be okay, Mom. Soldiers protect civilians, and if anyone must die first, it should be us."