What it’s about

Fighters of Israel’s renowned IDF Egoz Unit have recounted their harrowing experiences in Gaza while combating Hamas. These brave young men are navigating extreme circumstances daily to defend their country.

Why it matters

The sincere accounts of these soldiers highlight the unprecedented challenges the IDF faces in Gaza, underscoring Israel’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens even amidst the gravest dangers. Their narratives also demonstrate the solidarity and bravery inherent in Israeli soldiers as they put their lives on the line.

Realities of Warfare: Split-Second Decisions

Members of the IDF’s Egoz unit spoke to Tablet Magazine about their close encounters with death while operating in Gaza. One soldier described the high-stakes decisions required when facing potential threats from Hamas tunnels:

“To stand there, with your finger on the trigger… if you take too long, and the person that comes out of there is actually a terrorist, and he shoots you first… Nobody says that to you but that’s what goes through your head,” the soldier explained.

Responsibility and Cohesion: Everyday on the Frontlines

One of the troops reflected on the sense of responsibility shouldered daily:

“Every second, you need to be your best version because every mistake is a friend’s life,” he said, illustrating the critical teamwork and camaraderie among the soldiers.

The Dangers Faced: A Constant Reality

The soldiers shared anecdotes of near-miss encounters, such as narrowly escaping an explosion set as a trap by terrorists:

“This one time… there was a massive explosion…another one was the entry to the tunnel, and they were supposed to get out of the tunnel and try to kidnap one of us.”

Humor Amidst Tension

The soldiers maintain morale through camaraderie and humor, even in the face of imminent danger:

“I was like, ‘Oh s***, that was a close one,’” a soldier chuckled while recalling a near-explosion moment. This resilient humor helps them cope with the relentless pressure.

Humanitarian Efforts and Respect

Despite the danger, Egoz fighters emphasize their commitment to minimizing civilian casualties and respecting the roles of older reservists. A soldier revealed that risking their lives to warn civilians of imminent threats is a continuous effort:

“If I’m out in the street, any sniper from any building can have a shot…but we still do it,” he said;

They also expressed profound respect for older reservists who left their families and responsibilities to serve their country, showcased the patriotic spirit running deep within the Israeli military fabric.

The Egoz Unit

Formed in 1995, the Egoz Unit specializes in guerrilla warfare, primarily focusing on Israel’s northern border, according to the IDF. The unit remains an essential component of Israel’s Commando Brigade in defending national security.

These soldiers’ stories deeply demonstrate both the lethal threats facing Israel and the valor and resilience of those defending it. Their tales of bravery underpin the critical sacrifices made in the face of adversity, proving the unwavering dedication of Israel’s soldiers to their country’s security and peace.

This story was first published on jpost.com.