Bruchin, Israel — A tragic aftermath from a recent terror attack has left a community mourning the loss of a two-week-old infant who succumbed to injuries he sustained while his mother was violently taken from him. Ravid Chaim Gez, born in a desperate emergency procedure, passed away Thursday morning at Schneider Children’s Medical Center.
His mother, Tzeela Gez, was shot by a Palestinian gunman while en route to the hospital for the birth of her fourth child on May 14. During the attack, Tzeela, a beloved member of her community, died from her injuries, while her husband, Hananel, sustained lighter wounds.
Emergency responders were able to transport Tzeela to a hospital, where doctors performed a Caesarean section to save the newborn. Despite their efforts, Ravid battled critical health issues from the onset of his life.
The devastating news was confirmed by both the Samaria Regional Council and the community of Bruchin. Council leader Yossi Dagan expressed outrage, labeling the incident a double murder and urging immediate action in response to such violence. He called for infrastructure development in memory of both Ravid and Tzeela, stressing the urgent need for increased security measures in the area.
Following the attack, Dagan also demanded that the Israeli Defense Forces demolish unauthorized structures in the village of Burqin, near the site of the shooting, asserting these buildings pose a risk to travelers on the road.
Local leaders joined in mourning the loss, with Meital Ben Yosef, chairwoman of Bruchin, lamenting the tragic fate that befell the young family. In a poignant statement, she articulated the community’s grief, asserting that Ravid was meant to enter the world amid joy and anticipation but instead was robbed of his potential by a senseless act of violence.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir weighed in on the situation, describing the infant’s death as a heart-wrenching testament to the ongoing conflict, highlighting the urgent need for decisive measures against those perpetuating such brutality.
In a related development, Israeli forces recently eliminated the assailant responsible for the attack, identified as Nael Samara. This occurred during a counter-terror operation aimed at enhancing safety in the vicinity of Burqin, amid ongoing tensions and calls for security across the region.
Community leaders vowed to remember Ravid and Tzeela by intensifying efforts to foster resilience and development in the area, emphasizing their commitment to staying rooted in their homeland.