Jewish Pioneer Killed in Gaza Laid to Rest in Cemetery Built in 24 Hours

In an extraordinary show of national solidarity and reverence, Israeli authorities established a cemetery in just 24 hours in the Binyamin community of Malachei Hashalom to honor and bury David Libi, a 19-year-old Defense Ministry civilian contractor killed in Gaza.

Libi, a resident of the Binyamin region, was killed by a roadside bomb while operating heavy machinery in northern Gaza part of Israel's ongoing effort to dismantle terrorist infrastructure. He was the eldest son of Eliav Libi, a renowned Land of Israel advocate and founder of the Malachei Hashalom community. David is survived by his parents and seven younger siblings.

“David was on the front line of the war in Gaza,” said Israel Gantz, head of the Binyamin Regional Council. “He showed great devotion to the cause of defeating the enemy. He was responsible for the destruction of a lot of terrorist infrastructure.”

Within an hour of his death, Gantz appealed to national officials, leading to an expedited and unified response. Religious Services Minister Michael Malchieli and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s Defense Ministry team moved swiftly to approve the cemetery and burial licenses. The local religious council and burial society worked in tandem to prepare the site, demonstrating Israel’s deep commitment to honoring those who give their lives for the nation.

“This is the path of heroic David and the entire Libi family,” Gantz said. “This land is acquired through hardship, but this incredible family teaches us to move forward with courage, alongside the pain to build and to grow.”

David’s funeral took place on Friday afternoon in the newly established cemetery, a lasting tribute to his sacrifice and the legacy of his family’s commitment to the Land of Israel.

From building new communities to defending them, David Libi’s life embodies the enduring spirit of Zionism. His story is a reminder that Israel’s strength lies not only in its soldiers, but in every citizen who steps forward to protect, construct, and love this land.

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