IDF reservist dies of his wounds after being injured in southern Gaza

The IDF cleared for publication last night (Saturday) that Master Sergeant (Res.) Bezalel Yehoshua, 32 years old from Avnei Eitan, a combat engineering soldier in the 749th Engineering Battalion of the Bislamach Brigade (828), died of his wounds after being seriously injured on July 19 in a battle in southern Gaza. He is survived by his wife and child.

Yehoshua was injured in the incident along with a reserve combat engineering officer when the Humvee they were traveling in hit an explosive device. His death brings the total number of Israeli casualties since the beginning of the war to 896.

The Golan Regional Council paid tribute: “Bezalel was married to Maayan and the father of a young daughter. He worked for the Israel Electric Corporation and served as a reservist fighter. Sadly, on Saturday, his condition deteriorated, and he passed away from his injuries. In this difficult time, the Golan community embraces his wife Maayan and their daughter, his parents Yaakov and Chana, his brothers, sisters, and the entire family. The council and all of the Golan salute the IDF’s soldiers – men and women – who continue to risk their lives even now in this war. With hope and prayers for good news and better days for all the people of Israel.”

Earlier this week, on Tuesday, the IDF also cleared for publication that Master Sergeant (Res.) Vladimir Loza, 36, from Ashkelon, a soldier in the 5th Brigade, was killed in battle in Rafah. Loza was laid to rest at the Ashkelon military cemetery, with many coming to pay their respects and accompany him on his final journey.

The incident occurred the previous evening when troops from the 5th Brigade were preparing to destroy buildings and underground infrastructure in the Jenina neighborhood of Rafah. During the operation, an explosive device detonated. Loza was killed, and two other soldiers were wounded.