Israeli Mother Shares Emotional Farewell as Last Son Joins Armored Corps Amid Ongoing Conflict

Shontel from Ofakim, a mother of four soldiers, bid farewell to her youngest son as he enlisted in the Israeli Armored Corps on Tuesday at the Tel Hashomer base. Speaking to Channel 7, she expressed the deep fear and anxiety that have accompanied her since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, when her three older sons, all combat soldiers, were deployed to rescue missions but thankfully returned safely. Now, with her youngest son enlisting during this tense period, her worries have intensified.

Despite her fears, Shontel emphasized her faith and pride in her sons' service, praying that all soldiers return home safely. She described the ongoing stress faced by families with loved ones in active duty and reserves, noting that the worry never ends. Advising her son, she urged him to take care of himself, follow orders, and stay alert.

Her son, a Hesder Yeshiva student from Sderot, shared that his religious studies have given him a profound sense of purpose in his military service, viewing it as a mission for the people of Israel rather than just a duty. He confidently told his mother, "It will be fine. God protects me. What more can a mother ask for?" He plans to serve in the Armored Corps and aims to join a special unit.

Shontel comes from a family deeply connected to military service, including being a bereaved sister, with her brother having served as a combat soldier and her son-in-law currently in reserve duty. She highlighted that this upbringing instilled a commitment to service in her children, though the fear remains ever-present in today's reality where no mother truly sleeps peacefully at night.