Retired Major Alexander Filin, 29, from Haifa, a fighter in the 36th Division headquarters, was killed yesterday (Wednesday) in battle in southern Lebanon, after an IED was detonated on the vehicle of the deputy commander of the 36th Division.
Seven additional IDF soldiers were injured in the incident - 3 moderately and 4 lightly. Among the moderately injured was the deputy commander of the division, an officer with the rank of colonel.
The incident occurred yesterday around 5:00 PM, when a team of fighters from the 36th Division's deputy commander's headquarters and Givati were walking on foot in the Litani area, when an IED was detonated towards them.
As a result of the shrapnel from the explosion, four soldiers were injured, who were safely evacuated to receive further medical treatment at the hospital. A few minutes later, another explosive drone exploded on the evacuation vehicle. As a result, another IDF soldier was injured.
Afterwards, IDF forces attacked terrorist infrastructure in the area with artillery fire. The IDF is investigating whether the incident was caused by an IDF explosive device and whether it was an operational accident or whether it was an enemy explosive device.
Alexander immigrated alone from Ukraine 14 years ago as part of the Na'aleh program. He enlisted in the IDF and in 2018, on Israel's 70th Independence Day, received a Presidential Medal of Excellence - after two years earlier he neutralized a terrorist who attempted to carry out a stabbing attack at a checkpoint in Nablus.
His wife was informed of his fall while she was abroad.
Defense Minister Israel Katz paid tribute: "Alexander reported for reserve service time and again out of a deep sense of mission. I embrace his family in their difficult time. I wish a speedy and complete recovery to the fighters who were injured in the incident and I strengthen the IDF fighters and commanders who continue to act heroically in Lebanon. May Alexander's memory be blessed.".
The incident occurred during a ceasefire, and after the understandings between the US and Iran - hours after Hezbollah launched two explosive drones towards the IDF and the evacuation force, where 5 fighters were injured, including one who was evacuated in serious condition.
The first explosion occurred around 6:00 AM, when a drone exploded near a tank belonging to the Givati combat team in the Tabit area in southern Lebanon.
As a result of the shrapnel from the explosion, four fighters were injured, who were evacuated safely to receive medical treatment in hospitals. After a few minutes, another explosive drone exploded on the evacuation vehicle, injuring another fighter. IDF forces attacked terrorist infrastructure in the area with artillery fire.
