GAZA STRIP / JERUSALEM – The death of Sgt. Yosef Yehuda Hirak, a 22-year-old soldier from Moshav Harasha, sparked a nationwide wave of mourning Tuesday as leaders, settlers, community members, and citizens came together to honor the young warrior whose life and bravery were cut short in northern Gaza.
Hirak, a recently married combat soldier in the IDF’s 401st Armored Brigade, was killed in battle as part of Operation Gideon’s Chariots. He is the first Israeli soldier to fall in the current phase of the campaign. His funeral will be held today at 11:30 AM at Mount Herzl Military Cemetery.
Newlywed and Warrior
Yosef, a member of Battalion 601, leaves behind his wife Emunah—whom he married only seven months ago—his parents, and three sisters.
Finance Minister Smotrich: “From Grief, We Rebuild”
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, head of the Religious Zionist Party and a longtime associate of Hirak’s father-in-law, Yehuda Eliyahu, wrote: “My heartfelt condolences to my friend and partner of over 25 years, Yehuda Eliyahu, on the loss of his son-in-law, Yosef Yehuda Hirak. His sacrifice, like that of many others, strengthens our responsibility—to achieve victory, destroy Hamas, restore Israel’s honor and security, and bring the hostages home. In building the land, we shall find comfort.”
Defense Minister Israel Katz: “We Will Continue for Him”
“I received the news with deep sorrow. Yosef was newly married. I embrace his family in their most painful hour. For him, we will continue in our commitment to bring back the hostages and dismantle the terror regime in Gaza,” wrote Defense Minister Katz.
Local Leaders, National Pain
Israel Gantz, head of the Binyamin Regional Council, said: “Only months ago, we danced together at Yosef’s wedding. Now we mourn his death. He and Emunah built a home of devotion—and in the ultimate act of sacrifice, it was fulfilled.”
The council confirmed that its support teams are providing emotional and practical assistance to the family and community. Deputy Jerusalem Mayor Aryeh King eulogized Hirak as: “A defender of Jerusalem, following in the footsteps of the ancient protectors of the City of David.”
Voices from Across Israel
Hanoch Daum, Israeli journalist and author, captured the raw emotion: “Just look. This is a loss beyond words.”
Yoseph Haddad, Arab-Israeli social activist and IDF veteran, wrote: “So much pain. Just months ago, he got married. The big smile in the photo says everything.”
