Ido Zoldan's Legacy Lives On in Homesh Settlement and Israeli Society

Nearly two decades after Ido Zoldan was killed in a shooting attack, his family continues to honor his memory and legacy. Zoldan, who was murdered 19 years ago near the village of Funduq by three Palestinian policemen, was a Golani Brigade fighter and commander, a Torah scholar, a youth mentor, and a devoted builder of the Land of Israel. His mother, Miriam Zoldan, describes him as a genuine, brave individual deeply committed to his faith, country, and community.

Ido’s life was marked by significant achievements despite his short 29 years. He was a leader in the struggle to settle Homesh and opposed the disengagement plan. After serving as an officer in Golani, where he was known for his humility and excellence, he pursued his dream of building Israel with his own hands, founding a Hebrew-only construction company in Samaria. He and his wife Tehila were among the first families to settle in Homesh, and he remained active in efforts to return to the settlement after its evacuation.

The attack that ended his life occurred as he was returning home from Torah study in the Shomron. Despite a long day of construction work, he never missed his regular study sessions. The assailants, Palestinian policemen armed under the Oslo Accords, fired four shots at his car, killing him instantly. While two attackers were captured immediately, the third was recently apprehended by the Shin Bet just before his planned release from Palestinian custody, bringing some measure of justice to the family.

Miriam emphasizes that her son’s story is not one of death but of life and ongoing mission. She has dedicated herself to sharing Ido’s story in schools, communities, and with soldiers, ensuring his values and example continue to inspire. She recalls how Ido’s leadership and faith influenced others, including friends who became religious through his example. His legacy is encapsulated in the words of one of his sons, who said Ido taught them how to truly live a sacred life in the world, blending faith and action seamlessly.

Ido Zoldan’s life and sacrifice remain a powerful symbol of dedication to Israel, Torah, and the settlement movement, inspiring many years after his passing.