Son of Sigalit and David. He was born on Tuesday, 3rd of Marcheshvan 5762 (October 20, 2001) in Netanya. Brother to Omer.
Our Harel, a 22-year-old outstanding officer in the Givati Reconnaissance Unit, loved his country with all his heart. A beloved hero who is so deeply missed.
As a child, he loved extreme activities and never rested for a moment. He always knew how to make everyone around him laugh and stayed close to his dog, Chucky.
He was a person full of love for life. He loved to celebrate life, devour the world, and win over every person with his huge smile that is etched into our hearts. Anything he set his mind to—he achieved. When he wanted to learn surfing, he flew alone to Portugal and learned how to surf. When he wanted a motorcycle, he quickly got his license and bought the wildest bike out there. When he aimed to lead his team to the highest achievements in the unit, nothing stood in his way.
He was assertive, determined, and reached impressive accomplishments in his life—especially during his military service.
Harel led his team (Team Itach) in operational missions and intense battles. On October 7th, Harel rushed into battle to save the lives of many residents of Kibbutz Nahal Oz, and later took part in weeks of heavy fighting in the Gaza Strip. From that day until his last, Harel was committed to doing everything in his power to ensure peace at home and defend his country with his own body.
On December 22nd, during an operational mission in Khan Yunis, Team Itach encountered a booby-trapped building. As a result, the team lost two soldiers—Nir Kannanyan and Berhano Kassia, may their memories be a blessing. Harel was critically injured. After fighting like a lion for his life for eight long days, he passed away from his wounds.
Harel knew how to be a commander who was also a friend and a brother. He left his mark on each and every one of his soldiers. He loved to help and, in his modest ways, made the world just a little bit better.
