On November 20, a 71-year-old Israeli researcher, Zeev Erlich, and an IDF soldier, Sgt. Gur Kehati, were killed in southern Lebanon during a gun battle with Hezbollah operatives. Erlich, a historian and tour guide, was granted permission by Col. Yoav Yarom of the Golani Brigade to enter the region to inspect an archaeological site. The group was ambushed by Hezbollah operatives who opened fire, killing Erlich and Kehati, while Col. Yarom and another officer were injured.
In a separate incident, Sgt. Eitan Ben Ami, 22, of the Maglan commando unit, died when a building, previously damaged by Israeli airstrikes, collapsed during a mission. The collapse occurred due to harsh weather conditions, and the IDF has ruled out enemy fire or booby traps as causes.
These deaths bring the total number of Israeli casualties in the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah to 71 soldiers and reservists. The conflict began in October 2023, after nearly a year of cross-border attacks by Hezbollah. Since then, Hezbollah has expanded its assault to target Israeli cities with rockets. The group claims to be supporting Gaza amidst the war, and has caused significant civilian casualties along the Lebanese-Israeli border.
Erlich was eulogized by national religious leaders for his contributions to Israeli security and his deep connection to the land’s history. His death highlights the ongoing risks faced by Israeli civilians and soldiers in the region.
