Israeli Reservist Dies by Drowning During Family Vacation in Cyprus

Yaakov (Kobi) Yedid, a 35-year-old Jerusalem resident and father of four, drowned while on a family vacation in Limassol, Cyprus. After a prolonged period of reserve military service, Yedid traveled with his wife Rivka and their children to the Mediterranean coast. During a swim in the sea, he disappeared underwater, prompting immediate rescue efforts.

Local authorities launched a search operation that lasted about two hours. A drone assisted the rescue teams in locating Yedid's body, which was recovered lifeless from the water. His family waited anxiously on the shore throughout the search. Following the tragedy, Yedid's sisters and other relatives traveled to Cyprus to support his wife and children.

Yedid's sister described him as a man with a big heart, a devoted husband and father, and a person who brought pride to his parents. ZAKA, the Israeli emergency response organization, is coordinating with Cypriot authorities and Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs to repatriate his body for burial in Israel. Baruch Nidam, head of ZAKA's international division, confirmed that efforts began immediately after receiving the report, while ZAKA's operations deputy, Haim Weingarten, emphasized ongoing support for the bereaved family throughout the process.