Tragic Loss: Two Israeli Soldiers Killed in Recent Combat Operations in north and southern Lebanon

 The Israeli Defense Forces mourn the loss of two soldiers who fell in combat on Tuesday amid ongoing military operations in north and southern Lebanon.

Maj. (res.) Sa'ar Eliad Norsky, 27, from Tel Aviv, a fighter in the 508th battalion 'Adirim' formation, was killed by a rocket strike near Naot Mordechai in the Galilee. Norsky was reportedly living in a van and sharing his travel experiences on Instagram in the weeks leading up to his death. He recorded his morning walk at the Sea of Galilee just two days before. Friends and community members remember him as a beloved figure in the local cycling community, where he served as a coach.

Emotional tributes flooded social media following his death. His partner, Zol, expressed profound grief, stating, "The love of my life, I never imagined this would happen to me, to you, and to us. Half of my soul was lost." Friends reflected on Norsky's generosity and kindness, with one friend, Itamar, writing, "I never knew anyone else like you, who always loved to help and wanted nothing in return."

In a separate incident, Major (res.) Aviram Harib, 42, from Dolev, the deputy commander of battalion 9308 in the 'Alon' brigade, was killed in southern Lebanon. Harib was remembered for his dedication to education and his family, leaving behind six children. Binyamin Israel Gantz, head of the regional council, praised Harib as a great educator whose values extended to the battlefield.

Friend Malachi Nokde paid tribute online, stating, "Rabbi Aviram Harib. Rabbi, major, educator, and man of Torah and practice. Father of six and friend as a brother." He expressed sorrow over the loss and highlighted the void left by Harib's passing.

Both soldiers' deaths serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing conflict and its impact on families and communities across Israel. The IDF continues to operate in challenging environments as the nation grapples with the loss of these dedicated servicemen.