It is now confirmed that Sgt. Itay Yehuda, 20, a fighter in the Givati Brigade, fell in battle in the northern Gaza Strip.
Yehuda had spoken to his mother, Rinat, before entering Gaza, telling her that he had trained for this moment for three years. He held a deep desire to protect his homeland and had aspirations of opening his own tattoo business, showcasing his artistic talent.
Family, friends, acquaintances, and residents of Rishon Lezion, Yehuda's hometown, gathered to pay their last respects and organized a flag parade in his honor. The procession, starting from his residence, accompanied his family to the cemetery in Holon.
Itay Yehuda: An artist
Yehuda's uncle, Yaron, reminisced, "He was an amazing artist, full of laughter, and had a contagious charm. He respected his parents and humanity. Simply put, he was an extraordinary young man. Like his brother before him, he followed the path of serving in the Givat Brigade, even returning from reserves to participate in the current battle. This time, Yehuda found himself in the midst of combat. His brother, Omar, served in Sderot."
His uncle said that before entering Gaza, Yehuda spoke to his brother.
"We were all concerned, but he exuded confidence and determination. He was a true fighter, mature and focused. He was also an exceptional artist; his Instagram account showcases his paintings, including one of a fallen soldier," his uncle said.
Noam, one of Yehuda's acquaintances, shared a heartfelt tribute: "The 14th casualty in the Gaza fighting, Sgt. Itay Yehuda. Even during the short time I knew you, even before you wore the uniform, I saw you as a kind-hearted boy, devoted to your people and country. You were always ready to help and support others. I remember when I once told you to take care of yourself as a hero, and you replied, 'I'll take care of myself to take care of you.' Rest in peace, hero."
The mayor of Rishon Lezion speaks out
Raz Kinstlich, the mayor of Rishon Lezion, honored Yehuda: "Rishon Lezion mourns the loss of Sgt. Itay Yehuda. Itay served in the Givati Saber Battalion and was just two weeks away from celebrating his 21st birthday. He leaves behind his parents, Rinat and Ofer, and two brothers, Omer and Adi. His family attests to Itay's loving nature, his passion for art, and his dream of becoming a tattoo artist. He loved the army and his fellow soldiers, making it clear that protecting the homeland was his life's mission.
"Behind me, there lies a story and a life cut tragically short. Rishon Lezion shares the pain of Itay's dear family and mourns his untimely death," the mayor continued. "Together, we will remember him as a hero of Israel. May his memory be a blessing."
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