Widow of fallen IDF Soldier announces engagement in heartfelt post

The announcement comes as a beacon of hope amidst the deep sorrow she has faced since the loss of her husband.

In a heartfelt message, Meitar and Baruch shared their joy, saying, "Thank you, blessed G-d; we are happy and excited to announce to the world that we, Baruch Tzuri Noked and Meitar Eliyahu, are engaged. 'You, G-d, make miracles.'" The engagement marks a significant moment in Meitar's life, who has faced unimaginable grief after the death of her husband in November 2023.

Yedidya Eliyahu, 25, hailed from Karnei Shomron and served in the IDF’s Combat Engineering Corps, specifically Battalion 8170. He was killed during combat operations in Gaza, leaving behind a young family, including his wife, Meitar, and two daughters. Their third child, a son, was born in March 2024, further symbolizing resilience and the continuation of life despite the hardships they’ve endured.

Yedidya’s background reflects his deep connection to his faith and community. The son of Rabbi Yoram Eliyahu from Jerusalem's Kiryat Moshe neighborhood, he studied at the hesder yeshiva in Tzfat and was called to reserve duty on the first day of the war. His life was one of dedication to both his faith and his role as a soldier.

Yigal Lahav, head of Karnei Shomron, praised Yedidya's character, saying, “He was a man of spirit, who loved the Torah and loved his work.” His memory continues to live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and now, as Meitar embarks on a new chapter of her life, she carries his memory with her while looking toward a hopeful future.