What happened
On the morning of October 7, three friends from Sderot, including Neomi Shitrit Azulai, Kobi Pariente, and Ram Hayun, were out running in the northern Negev when they unexpectedly encountered a group of armed Hamas terrorists. An IDF unit including members of the 890th Battalion was dispatched to their rescue amidst the ambush.
Why it matters
The story is an illustration of bravery in the face of sudden terror and highlights the dangers that civilians in certain areas of Israel may face. It underscores the quick response and courage of IDF soldiers tasked with protecting citizens. By meeting the soldiers who attempted evacuation and engagement with terrorists, the family of Neomi Shitrit Azulai has had the chance to personally thank them and express their appreciation for the soldiers’ efforts, despite the tragic outcome.
The clash and its aftermath
Diversity quickly marked the resolve shown by the dispatched soldiers who shielded the civilians from direct harm and engaged with the terrorists in intense combat. Unfortunately, two soldiers, Staff Sergeant Itay-Eliyahu Marchiano and Staff Sergeant Ilay Gamzu, gave their lives in the incident. Despite sustaining injuries, soldier Maayan Nachmani succeeded in neutralizing two terrorists and protecting the civilians.
While Shitrit Azulai received a gunshot wound from the terrorists and tragically succumbed to her injuries, her friend, Kobi Pariente was killed attempting to flee, and Ram Hayun sustained serious injuries but survived. Even when wounded, Nachmani continued to demonstrate steadfast commitment, earning the respect and deep gratitude of Azulai’s family.
A family’s homage to heroism
The bereaved family members expressed profound respect for all the soldiers, emphasizing the extraordinary heroism they displayed under fire. Nachmani’s recount of the event described dire circumstances – running low on ammunition but determined to protect the isolated group from their assailants. The encounter was a poignant moment between the Azulai family and the surviving soldiers—heartfelt and a testament to the human spirit.
Remembering the fallen and the selfless
The episode speaks to the larger narrative of the continuing challenges Israel faces on its borders and the unyielding deterrence provided by its defense forces. It is also a somber reminder of the risks these soldiers take and the personal losses that the families of those fallen and civilians endure.
The family stresses that contrary to some public perceptions, the current generation of IDF soldiers embodies a legacy of victory and demonstrates strength, decisiveness, and fearlessness that warrants due national recognition and honor.
The broader impact
Stories like these fortify the resolve of Israel and its advocates to protect its citizens while affirming the unity and strength of the community in face of adversity. Indeed, for the family of Neomi Shitrit Azulai, those who attempted to rescue her will always be considered an extension of their own family and are serenaded with lasting admiration for their brave attempts to protect lives at the peril of their own.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.