What it is about
Two Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers were tragically killed during a mortar strike in Central Gaza. The soldiers, Sgt. First Class (Res.) Saadia Yaakov Dery and Sgt. First Class (Res.) Omer Smadga, served in the Alexandroni Brigade’s 9203rd Battalion. Additionally, five other soldiers were injured in the attack, with three sustaining serious injuries.
Why it matters
This grievous incident underscores the harsh realities and sacrifices faced by the brave members of the IDF in their ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of Israel. The loss of Soldiers like Dery and Smadga doesn’t just affect their families and friends but resonates deeply within the entire nation, strengthening the collective resolve to pursue peace and security.
Soldiers’ Profiles
Sgt. First Class (Res.) Saadia Yaakov Dery, 27, hailed from Tel Aviv. He left behind a legacy through his work with the Hamaniot nonprofit, which supports orphans in Israel. Dery is survived by his spouse Racheli and their two children, Haleli, aged 2, and Yinon, aged 1, along with his five siblings. Dery’s parent, Laly Dery, is known for her role as a news commentator and her participation in the Likud primaries.
Sgt. First Class (Res.) Omer Smadga, 25, from Ganot Hadar, carried a proud legacy as the son of Oren Smadga, who secured an Olympic bronze medal in judo at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, becoming Israel’s second Olympic medalist.
The Broader Impact
Since the inception of the current conflict, 664 IDF soldiers have been killed, reflecting the immense challenges and dangers they consistently face. Of these, 312 have laid down their lives since the beginning of the ground offensive in Gaza. This tragic statistic fuels determination among Israelis and friends of Israel globally, reinforcing the valor with which IDF continues to uphold its nation’s defense.
Every casualty, such as that of Dery and Smadga, reminds us of the significant efforts and ultimate sacrifices made in the crude theater of conflict, marking a somber testament to their dedication and a call to all to pursue unity and resilient support for Israel’s security.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.