Israeli Soldier Benyahu Malt Fights Terrorists Despite Severe Wounds in West Bank Attack

A detailed investigation is underway into the deadly attack last Friday at the Sela Ridge area between Har Bracha and Givat Gilad in the West Bank. Video footage and eyewitness accounts reveal the extraordinary bravery of Benyahu Malt, a deputy sergeant major from Givat Gilad, who continued to fight terrorists even after sustaining serious injuries. Malt was deployed by the Shomron Brigade alongside the deputy sergeant major of Givat Gilad after dozens of Arab rioters began throwing stones at hikers. The incident was identified in real time by IDF observers, prompting rapid deployment of forces.

Testimonies and footage also show that Lieutenant Colonel Yuval Ezra rushed to the scene immediately upon noticing the weapon snatching. One video, filmed by Palestinians and shared by journalist Elchanan Groner, captures Malt’s final moments. Despite being shot in his upper body and having his left hand shattered, Malt managed to stand, draw his pistol, and fire at the terrorists, killing at least one and wounding others before collapsing. Earlier, he had already shot a terrorist attempting to seize his weapon.

The footage further reveals the actions of a Golani soldier on leave who intervened when two terrorists tried to take Malt’s pistol while he was wounded on the ground. The soldier killed one attacker and wounded another, enabling Malt to escape and reach rescue forces. Additionally, a reservist on leave from the Lebanon conflict shot at the terrorist who had initially shot Malt. Malt himself fired back before being overwhelmed by two more attackers.

The full picture remains incomplete due to multiple weapons fired during the struggle, and ballistic analyses are pending to determine exact details. Malt’s widow, Esther, praised his heroism and called for full support for soldiers to shoot without fear of investigations, the dismantling of the terrorist village Tal, cancellation of the Oslo Accords, and establishment of settlements in the area where Malt died. Shomron Regional Council head Yossi Dagan hailed Malt as a hero who saved lives until his last breath and vowed to strengthen Israeli presence in the region.