IDF Reservist Yona Efraim Feldbaum Killed by Hamas Sniper in Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces on Wednesday confirmed the death of Chief Sgt. First Class (Res.) Yona Efraim "Efi" Feldbaum, a 37-year-old IDF reservist and father of five, who was killed by Hamas sniper fire in Rafah during what was supposed to be a ceasefire period in Gaza.

Feldbaum, a resident of Zayit Raanan in the Binyamin region, served as a Combat Engineer under the Gaza Division. His death marks yet another ceasefire breach by Hamas and triggered a swift and forceful response by the IDF across the Gaza Strip, including precision strikes in Gaza City and against Hamas infrastructure in the south.

“Efi was very well known and loved throughout the region. He devoted much of his time to developing young settlements,” read a statement from the Binyamin Regional Council. “Efi was deeply connected to the land of Israel and fell while acting to defend it.”

Binyamin Regional Council head Yisrael Ganz paid tribute to Feldbaum, describing him as a hero who continued serving on the frontlines even after the ceasefire was declared. “Thanks to Efi’s courage and sacrifice, the people of Israel will prevail,” he said. “The people of Israel are not afraid of a long road.”

Feldbaum is the 59th fallen soldier from the Binyamin area since the start of the war. His loss is deeply felt not only by his family and community but by a nation still grappling with the consequences of ongoing conflict.

Israeli military sources confirmed that Hamas's attack was a direct ceasefire violation and necessitated a decisive response to deter further aggression. "The response to their current violations will be much more significant than the response last time,” one senior Israeli official said.

Defense Minister Israel Katz said the sniper attack "crossed a bright red line," vowing that the IDF would “respond with great force.” The military has already increased operational activity near the Yellow Line in Gaza to prevent further threats to soldiers.

U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, reaffirmed Israel’s right to respond. “As I understand it, they took out an Israeli soldier,” Trump said. “So the Israelis hit back, and they should hit back.” He warned Hamas that any further violations would carry serious consequences. “If they are not good, they are going to be terminated,” he stated bluntly.

Despite Trump’s commitment to upholding the fragile ceasefire, he made clear that it does not prevent Israel from defending its soldiers or sovereignty. “Nothing is going to jeopardize the ceasefire,” he added. “Hamas has to behave.”

Feldbaum’s death is a stark reminder that while political frameworks may promise calm, the reality on the ground remains perilous. Israel continues to pay the price in blood for the defense of its people and yet remains steadfast in doing so.

Israel will endure, and its people will continue to defend their land and values. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates on those who protect and serve the Jewish state.