PM Netanyahu and Father of Fallen Soldier Reflect on Loss and Legacy Through Yoni Netanyahu’s Letters

In a special episode of the "King in Beit Leizer Chaim" podcast on Galei Tzahal, Avi Harosh, father of fallen soldier Sergeant Reef Harosh, met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss themes of loss, memory, and the choice to continue living despite grief. The conversation centered around the book "Yoni’s Letters," found among Reef Harosh’s belongings after his death in combat in the Gaza Strip.

Nearly fifty years after the death of Lt. Col. Yonatan (Yoni) Netanyahu during Operation Entebbe, his story continues to inspire a new generation of Israeli soldiers. The podcast episode connects Yoni’s legacy with Reef Harosh’s story, highlighting how Reef regarded Yoni as a role model commander and person. The book, purchased by Reef and carried with him into battle, was discovered dusty in the blue box containing his returned gear.

The episode draws parallels between the two soldiers, emphasizing their love for the country, willingness to sacrifice, personal writings on life and death, and the tragic similarity of their deaths, both killed by gunshots near the heart. The discussion also touches on Benjamin Netanyahu’s long struggle with the loss of his brother, describing how the pain and longing remain vivid nearly five decades later, yet he chooses to rise each day and live alongside the memory.