IDF confirms death of soldier in tank accident in Gaza Strip

The Israel Defense Forces Spokesperson’s Unit reported late Saturday that Sergeant First Class (Res.) Malkia Gross, 25, of Susya, a soldier of the 9212th Armored Corps Battalion, was killed in a tank accident in the southern Gaza Strip. The military added that the incident was under investigation.

Omer is the son of Liat and Oren Smadga, the Olympic judo champion at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and head coach of the Israeli national judo team. “We heard from the commanders what happened there. We saw a commander who was really devastated,” Oren said. “From here, my message to you soldiers is: lift your heads, keep going as strong as you can and don’t stop until we win. Am Yisrael Chai.”

Thousands attended Smadga’s funeral in Netanya, including Transport Minister Miri Regev, MK Eli Dalal and mayors of local municipalities. “We stand here today and mourn the terrible loss that has befallen us, especially you, the Smadga family, and we salute Omer,” IDF representative Major Daniel Hazut said at the funeral.