IDF major critically hurt in 2014 Gaza war dies after 2.5-year coma

Following his injury, Ben Ari was named a symbolic commander of the Elite Paratroopers Reconnaissance Unit.

By JPOST.COM STAFF

JANUARY 4, 2017 09:49

Major Hagai Ben Ari (photo credit: BEN ARI FAMILY) — Major Hagai Ben Ari

(photo credit: BEN ARI FAMILY)

Major Hagai Ben Ari, who was severely injured by sniper fire in Operation Protective Edge, passed away late Tuesday evening.

Ben Ari, who was 31-years-old when he was inured, was serving as the commander of training in the elite Maglan unit.

The injury occurred on July 21, 2014 during the IDF's ground operation in Gaza.

Ben Ari was hospitalized in a coma and was later brought to his home in the Golan Heights community of Nov, where he died.

He is survived by his wife and three children.

Speaking to Army Radio, Hagai's brother, Noam Ben Ari stated, "We are experiencing great pain, though we know that he is no longer suffering, the injury was so severe."

"These past two and a half years have been a battle for his life," Noam continued, stating that it took him some time to understand just how seriously his brother had been injured.

Following his injury, Ben Ari was named a symbolic commander of the Elite Paratroopers Reconnaissance Unit.

Before his injury he had been set to be promoted to the position.