IDF Officer Yuval Ezra Laid to Rest After Fatal Gilad Farm Attack

Lieutenant Colonel Yuval Ezra, 27, was buried on Sunday afternoon at Beit Dagan cemetery following his death in the deadly Friday attack at Gilad Farm, where fellow security team member Beniho Malt was also killed. Ezra, a battery commander in the 411th Battalion of the 282nd Artillery Brigade, grew up in Beit Dagan and recently lived in Herzliya. He had become engaged just a month before his death.

Ezra's mother, Tanya, expressed her grief, recalling his constant smile and the love he shared with everyone around him. His sister, Daniel, spoke emotionally at his graveside, describing him as a pure and good person whose presence brightened every room. She highlighted his significant military service and the deep impact he had on family and friends, noting the pain of losing him just as he was about to marry his fiancée.

Beniho Malt was buried earlier on Friday with hundreds attending, including ministers Orit Strook, Itzhak Vissarlof, Amichai Shikli, and Ze'ev Elkin. The community mourns the loss of these two young men who served as protectors of their settlement, emphasizing the profound sorrow felt by their families and the nation.

The funerals underscore the ongoing security challenges faced by Israeli communities and the personal sacrifices made by soldiers like Ezra and Malt. The families and officials present honored their memory and commitment, with the nation sharing in the mourning of these fallen officers.