Israeli Reservists Harel Birnstok and Tamir Kakinin Die in South Lebanon Explosion

An explosion in a booby-trapped building in southern Lebanon killed two Israeli reservists, Lieutenant Colonel Harel Birnstok and Captain Tamir Kakinin, on Thursday around noon. The incident occurred during a mission by soldiers of Battalion 28 in the 55th Paratroopers Brigade within the Israeli security zone, approximately eight kilometers from the border. The soldiers were securing engineering work when they unknowingly entered the rigged structure, causing the fatal blast.

Harel Birnstok, 34, from Nokdim, was a married father of four, including a six-month-old infant. He worked as an engineer at Elbit Systems and served as a company commander in the reserves. His brother described him as a family man who loved life and outdoor activities. Birnstok's friend recalled their last conversation on the morning of the event and praised his dedication to protecting others.

Tamir Kakinin, 33, from Eilat, was a combat medic and left behind his parents and two brothers. His brother Yoav remembered him as the "heart of the company," always surrounded by friends and committed to reserve duty, especially since October 7. A cousin highlighted Tamir's humor, readiness to help others, and strong values. The Eilat municipality mourned him as a local hero and defender of Israel.

Regional Council head Yaron Rosenthal expressed condolences to Birnstok's family and the paratroopers brigade, emphasizing the heavy loss. Birnstok's funeral is scheduled for noon at Mount Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem, while Kakinin's will take place at 19:20 at the military cemetery in Eilat.

The Israel Defense Forces are still investigating the circumstances that led the soldiers into the booby-trapped building, which was previously unknown to them.