IDF Reservist Killed by Hezbollah Explosive Amid Ceasefire

On Friday, October 20, 2023, Warrant Officer (res.) Barak Kalfon, 48, of the 226th Reserve Paratroopers Brigade’s 7056th Battalion, was killed, and three other Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers were wounded after an explosive device detonated in the village of Jebbayn, southern Lebanon. This incident occurred shortly after a ceasefire with Hezbollah took effect at midnight, following over six weeks of conflict. The reservists were conducting a search for weapons when the explosive detonated, resulting in Kalfon's death and injuries to two soldiers moderately and one lightly.

Times of IsraelTimes of IsraelArutz Sheva (Israel National News)IDF Reservist Lidor Porat Hy’d Killed, Nine Soldiers Wounded By Hezbollah Explosive In Southern Lebanon

The ceasefire was established after a series of escalations that began on March 2, 2023, when Hezbollah initiated attacks against Israel. In response, Israel conducted extensive airstrikes and increased troop deployments into southern Lebanon. Kalfon’s death marks the first fatality of an Israeli soldier in Lebanon since the ceasefire was implemented.

Times of IsraelTimes of IsraelIDF Reservist Lidor Porat Hy’d Killed, Nine Soldiers Wounded By Hezbollah Explosive In Southern Lebanon

Defense Minister Israel Katz expressed condolences to Kalfon’s family, describing him as a "courageous and dedicated fighter and exemplary family man." Rafael, the state-owned defense firm where Kalfon worked as an engineer, praised him as a "dedicated and professional employee" who contributed significantly to Israel's security.

Times of Israel

An initial IDF investigation indicated that the explosive device was not remotely detonated, suggesting it may have been automatically triggered. The military is investigating the circumstances surrounding the device's placement and whether it constitutes a violation of the ceasefire. The IDF has stated that the device was likely planted before the ceasefire began, and further details are still under review.

Arutz Sheva (Israel National News)IDF Reservist Lidor Porat Hy’d Killed, Nine Soldiers Wounded By Hezbollah Explosive In Southern LebanonTimes of IsraelTimes of Israel

While the IDF maintains that the incident does not violate the ceasefire, there are concerns regarding the safety of operations in areas where ceasefires are in effect. Critics argue that the military should enhance its protocols to prevent such incidents, especially during periods of declared truce.

Arutz Sheva (Israel National News)

• “Barak was a courageous and dedicated fighter and exemplary family man,” — Israel Katz, Defense Minister

Times of Israel

• “What did you achieve? A great deal. Lots. And you didn’t even need to be in uniform anymore. But even so, you insisted on volunteering for reserve duty. That’s who you were. Always with a bright face, always smiling, always embracing and including. Calm, with a heart bursting with goodness.” — Sapir Kalfon, Cousin of Barak Kalfon

Times of Israel

Kalfon will be laid to rest on Sunday afternoon at the Adi cemetery. The IDF continues to investigate the incident, and further military actions may be anticipated in response to the ongoing tensions with Hezbollah.

Times of Israel