34 Year Old Indian Origin Soldier Dies In Gunfight With Hamas In Gaza Strip

A 34-year-old Israeli soldier of Indian origin lost his life in the ongoing conflict in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip this week, as reported by members of the community. Master Sgt. (res.) Gil Daniels, a resident of Ashdod, was fatally injured on Tuesday in Gaza, with his funeral taking place at the local military cemetery on Wednesday, according to sources.

The Israel Defence Forces verified that Gil was one of two soldiers who succumbed to the hostilities in the Gaza Strip.

The Indian Jewish Heritage Centre expressed sorrow, stating, “Israel has lost many soldiers in this vicious and cruel war, the best of its sons and daughters who stood up to fight for the honour of the entire nation of Israel. Today, we mourn the death of another IDF (Israel Defence Forces) soldier Master Sgt. (Res.) Gil Daniels (34), son of Yoel and Mazal.”

Providing additional details, it mentioned, “Gil went to the reserves on October 10 soon after the war started. May his memory be blessed.”

Gil, who obtained his Masters at the School of Pharmacy at Hebrew University, was remembered by his friend Tirza Lavi as “a genius with a great personality” who had recently become engaged.

A member of the Bene Israel community, originating from the Maharashtra region in India, Gil had attended Makif Gimel High School as part of the class of 2007. A classmate expressed deep sorrow, stating, “With immense pain, we the members of the 61st group of the class of 2007 mourn his death…his smile is remembered by all his friends.”

Since October 7, at least four Israeli soldiers of Indian origin are known to have lost their lives in the conflict.

Parvasi Media Group