Gaza war day 141: officer and soldier have been Killed in battles - Remembered as Heroic Commanders

 IDF allowed publication on Sunday morning that First Sergeant Neria Balta, 21 years old from Shomron, a fighter in the Givatay Patrol, was killed in battle in the southern Gaza Strip. In addition, an officer and two fighters of the Givatay Patrol were seriously injured in the battle. The IDF spokesman emphasized that the officer and the two fighters They were evacuated for medical treatment at the hospital, their families were informed.

Major Eyal Shuminov, aged 24, hailing from Karmiel, met his demise during a raid on the Zeytun neighborhood in Gaza City. The company commander in the Shaked Battalion within the Givati Brigade was struck by an anti-tank missile, succumbing to his injuries.

Shuminov's dedication to his duties and his commitment to safeguarding his nation were evident even before the outbreak of the recent conflict. In an interview with Ynet last July, he highlighted the battalion's proactive stance in countering terrorist activities in the Nablus area, emphasizing the pursuit of security through offensive operations.

News of Major Shuminov's death has reverberated throughout Karmiel, adding to the city's toll of fallen soldiers in the conflict. Chaim Soibelman, Shuminov's former teacher at Ort Psagot High School, paid tribute to his exemplary character and unwavering resolve. Soibelman recounted Shuminov's determination to return to duty promptly after sustaining injuries in a previous encounter with terrorists, underscoring his commitment to his country and his comrades.

Shuminov's leadership and selflessness were echoed in heartfelt tributes from his peers and superiors alike. Sharon Martin, a mother of one of Shuminov's fighters, lauded his leadership and personal sacrifice, emphasizing his role as a protector and mentor. Michal Geller, mother of Gilad, a soldier under Shuminov's command, expressed profound grief at the loss of a beloved leader and guardian.

The Mayor of Karmiel, Moshe Koninski, extended condolences to Shuminov's family, offering support and solidarity during their time of mourning.

Shuminov's tragic death adds to the toll of Israeli soldiers lost in the conflict, with 577 casualties since October 7, including 238 in ground operations in Gaza. Currently, 317 soldiers remain hospitalized, with 29 in serious condition, while a total of 2,962 soldiers have been injured since the outbreak of hostilities.