Misgav Am resident Ofer Moskowitz was killed on Sunday as a result of IDF artillery fire toward the kibbutz, the military confirmed on Monday morning.
Moskowitz’s family has been notified.
Per the IDF’s initial findings, artillery fire meant to support soldiers operating in southern Lebanon was carried out at an incorrect angle and against “required protocols,” resulting in five artillery shells being fired at Misgav Am rather than toward the enemy.
“The conclusions of the inquiry will be drawn and reviewed by all of the relevant bodies,” the military said.
The investigation is being led by the commander of the IDF’s Northern Command, Maj.-Gen. Rafi Milo, and several other senior commanders.
IDF to complete investigation, present findings publicly
Further, the military said it would conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and “transfer the findings in a transparent manner to the family and then to the public.”
It concluded by expressing “its regret over the incident and extends its deep condolences to the Moskowitz family and the Misgav Am community at this difficult time.”
It was initially assumed that Moskowitz was killed by Hezbollah anti-tank missile fire. However, a military source confirmed on Sunday to The Jerusalem Post that this was not the case. A Walla report claimed that he was killed by a 122 mm mortar shell.
Moskowitz grew up in Kiryat Bialik and moved to Misgav Am in 1983. He is survived by his three daughters and two grandchildren, one of whom was born in mid-March.
Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report.