Controversy Surrounds the Burial of Israeli Soldier Who Fought in Gaza
In the aftermath of recent conflicts in Gaza, the Israeli Defense Ministry's refusal to hold a military funeral for a soldier has ignited a storm of controversy. Four Israeli soldiers were killed during fighting in the southern Gaza Strip, as confirmed by the army. The identities and circumstances of their deaths remain undisclosed.
Particularly notable is the case of Eliran Mizrahi, an Israeli reserve soldier in the engineering corps who participated in the war on Gaza for five months. During his deployment, Mizrahi shared videos and images on social media, proudly displaying his involvement in the destruction of homes in Gaza. However, these posts often present a stark contrast to the harsh realities experienced by soldiers.
Mizrahi reportedly committed suicide after receiving orders to return to military service while struggling with psychological issues resulting from his experiences in Gaza. Following his death, a significant controversy emerged when the Ministry of Defense refused to grant Mizrahi a military burial, citing that he was not officially on active duty at the time of his death.
This decision has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many users demanding that Mizrahi be given the military honors they believe he deserves. Knesset member Yulia Malinovsky has publicly urged Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to reconsider, stressing that new realities call for a change in procedures regarding military burials. Malinovsky and others argue that Mizrahi’s psychological trauma and suicide were direct consequences of his service and sacrifice for his country.
- Mizrahi's sister has also taken to social media, pleading with the Defense Minister to release her brother's body from the Forensic Medicine Institute before the Feast of Firstfruits (Shavuot). She expressed her anguish, emphasizing the need for respect and closure for her family.
- The issue has highlighted broader concerns about the psychological impact of military service on Israeli soldiers. Recent reports by Haaretz revealed that since October 7, ten officers and soldiers have committed suicide, some during battles in settlements around Gaza. The debate around Mizrahi's burial has underscored a growing recognition of the need for mental health support for soldiers.
