ALBAWABA - Eliran Mizrahi, a reserve soldier in the Israeli engineering corps, has taken his own life following a recall to military service in Gaza. Mizrahi, who served in the Gaza conflict for five months, had previously shared videos on social media showcasing the destruction in Gaza, often appearing content and proud of his actions.
However, the reality behind these images appears to be starkly different. Reports from Israeli radio indicate Mizrahi committed suicide after being ordered to return to duty, while grappling with psychological issues stemming from his earlier deployment.
Despite his service, the Israeli Ministry of Defense has refused to grant Mizrahi a military burial, citing his off-duty status at the time of his death. This decision has ignited a firestorm on social media, with widespread condemnation and calls for reconsideration.
Mizrahi’s sister, in a heartfelt video message to Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, pleaded for her brother's body to be released from the Institute of Forensic Medicine. She urged, "Do not keep him there until Shavuot. Release him, I beg you."
Social media platforms saw a surge of support for the Mizrahi family, with many Israeli citizens and bloggers expressing outrage over the Ministry's decision. A campaign demanding a military burial for Mizrahi gained momentum, underscoring the public’s dissatisfaction.
Another critic remarked on the state's failure to support Mizrahi and his family, stating, "He sacrificed himself for the state, but the state abandoned him and his family."
According to Haaretz, since October 7, ten Israeli officers and soldiers have committed suicide, some during active engagements in Gaza. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for better mental health support within the military.
As the controversy continues, many are calling for an overhaul of current military protocols to better support soldiers struggling with post-war trauma, ensuring that their service and sacrifices are duly honored.
Subscribe to the Weekly Newsletter: Politics for a roundup of the most important regional and global issues from Al Jazeera Net.
