GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – Sergeant Pdaya Mark made the ultimate sacrifice during intense fighting against Hamas, a terrorist organization, in the northern Gaza Strip battle. On Tuesday, Mark became the tenth soldier from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to lose his life in the conflict.

Tragically, Mark’s father, Rabbi Michi Mark, also fell victim to a terrorist attack in 2016. Mark’s sister was also in the car when the incident occurred, adding to the immense tragedy faced by the family.

The loss of Mark is deeply felt not only by his loved ones but also by his cousin, Elhanan Clemanzon, who was among the rescuers during the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be’eri on October 7. Clemanzon, too, lost his life while fulfilling his duty.

Mark was reportedly killed on Tuesday when a Hamas-fired anti-tank missile struck the armored vehicle of the Givati squad in northern Gaza. This devastating loss has left the nation mourning, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressing his condolences and promising that the operation will not cease until victory is achieved.

With Mark’s death, the IDF has once again been reminded of the high price its soldiers pay in the ongoing conflict against Hamas. These brave men and women put their lives on the line to protect their country, making tremendous sacrifices in the process.

It is a somber reminder of the dangers faced by IDF soldiers and the toll it takes on their families. The loss of Sergeant Pdaya Mark is a pain felt not just by those who knew him personally, but by the nation as a whole. Israel stands united in honoring his memory and expressing gratitude for his service to the country.