What it is about

A recently released video by N12 shows the harrowing ordeal of an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Armored Corps tank crew, including American soldier Omer Neutra, during an attack by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023, at the Gaza border.

Why it matters

This new footage offers crucial insight into the trials faced by the IDF while protecting Israel’s sovereignty and highlights the personal sacrifices made by these brave soldiers. The video’s release brings further attention to the hostile actions of Hamas and reinforces the need for international focus on the security of Israel and its citizens.

Details

The tank crew, part of the 77th Battalion stationed between Kibbutz Nir Oz and Kibbutz Nirim, included commanding officer Omer Neutra from Long Island, tank gunner Nimrod Cohen from Rehovot, tank loader Oz Daniel from Kfar Saba, and driver Shaked Dahan from Afula. Neutra and Cohen are currently held hostage by Hamas while the IDF confirms that Dahan and Daniel have been killed.

Merav Daniel, the mother of Oz, recognized her son in the video and spoke emotionally about her loss, while Yehuda Cohen, father of Nimrod, described the inability to reach his son through messages.

Timeline of Events

During the early hours of October 7, the 77th Battalion reacted to alerts. One tank drove north while the tank carrying Neutra, Cohen, Daniel, and Dahan headed south. Shortly thereafter, the northern tank reported to the southern tank about experiencing combat from Gaza militants. Subsequently, an RPG struck the southern tank, leading to severe damage and fires.

Key Statements

Amir Daniel, father of Oz, detailed the unfortunate sequence leading to the abduction. “They were on the fence, and an RPG hit damaged the tank badly. Explosives placed on the tank eventually incapacitated it, forcing the crew to escape to avoid suffocation.” Yehuda Cohen added, “The crew couldn’t operate effectively during the attack because the equipment provided by the army wasn’t functioning properly. They were trying to save a few pennies on engine hours.”

Now, nearly ten months later, the painful events are still fresh for the soldiers’ families, who released the video to underline the gravity of the circumstances faced by their sons and the need for international intervention to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The Bottom Line

This tragic yet revealing video underscores the dangers faced by Israel’s defenders and the severe impact of the ongoing conflict with Hamas. It calls for greater international support to ensure the protection of Israeli lives and justice for those captured or fallen in the line of duty.

This story was first published on jpost.com.