Avitan, a resident of Eilat and father of three, was operating an excavator to clear structures and rubble in Gaza as part of a broader effort to ease the burden on IDF units and allow them to focus on other tasks.
According to the initial findings of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Avitan arrived at an army post inside Gaza, an area where military troops are still deployed. Unfortunately, he was mistakenly identified as a threat by a soldier, who opened fire, fatally wounding him. The IDF has since launched a Military Police investigation, overseen by the Military Advocate General, to thoroughly examine the details of the incident and determine how this tragic mistake occurred.
Avitan was not only a skilled contractor but also a deeply dedicated volunteer with ZAKA, a volunteer emergency and rescue organization. Specifically, he was a member of ZAKA’s Chesed Shel Emet unit in Eilat, where he frequently took on some of the most difficult and challenging missions. Known for his selflessness and commitment to helping others, Avitan once wrote to his commander upon joining ZAKA: "Any kindness I can do—I am ready, with love." His words reflect the deep compassion and dedication he demonstrated in both his volunteer work and his professional life.
ZAKA, in a statement, expressed profound grief over the loss of Avitan, describing him as an individual whose noble deeds would forever be remembered. The organization extended their heartfelt condolences to Avitan’s wife, Tali, and their three children, who are left to mourn the loss of a beloved husband and father.
As the IDF Military Police continues its investigation, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks and complexities faced by both military personnel and civilian contractors in conflict zones. The loss of Yaakov Avitan is a deeply tragic event, one that will resonate within his family, his community, and the organizations with which he worked.
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