Yaakov “Kobi” Avitan, a backhoe operator who had worked as a contractor for the Ministry of Defense, tragically lost his life in an operational accident in the Gaza Strip. He was 39 years old at the time of his death.
Preliminary reports suggest that Avitan, who was in the Gaza Strip wearing civilian attire, was accidentally shot, possibly by Israeli forces. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Avitan was deeply involved in volunteer work with the Yedidim and ZAKA organizations, with those who knew him describing him as a kind-hearted, God-fearing individual. Originally from Ofakim, he later moved to Eilat with his wife and three children.
In a statement, ZAKA praised Avitan’s selflessness: “Kobi was a man of kindness who dedicated his life to the common good and gave his life for the people of Israel. As part of his volunteering with ZAKA, Kobi was willing to act during every event, even in the most difficult and complex arenas. Years ago, when he joined ZAKA, Kobi wrote to the Eilat ZAKA commander, Rabbi Shimon Eisenbach, that ‘any kindness that can be done – I am willing to do with love,’ and so it was.”
{Matzav.com}