Israel Mourns Soldier Killed in West Bank Attack

The two soldiers, who served in the 775th "Ari" Battalion of the Home Front Command's Search and Rescue Brigade, were killed during a 20-minute exchange of fire with two Palestinian terrorists. Three other soldiers sustained minor injuries in the gunbattle. Arriving IDF reinforcements killed the two attackers, whose homes were later sealed by Israeli forces for demolition. Security officials believe the soldiers' response prevented a larger assault.

Hundreds of mourners attended the funerals of both soldiers on Sunday, October 25. Roytman was laid to rest at the military cemetery in Givat Zion, Ashkelon, where local residents and youth lined the streets waving Israeli flags. His girlfriend Ella, brother David, and sister Yona delivered emotional eulogies alongside his battalion commander, who praised his leadership.

Svilem was buried at the Neve Hadar military cemetery in Hod Hasharon. His sister Shira vowed not to let the terrorists break her spirit, while his father Amnon demanded answers from the military and called for the expulsion of the terrorists' families. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir attended Svilem's funeral, offering condolences and calling for harsher measures against terrorists.