Murdered British-Israeli Father Remembered for Brave Stand Against Hamas

BE’ERI, Israel – Yonatan Rapoport, a British-Israeli man, was tragically killed in an attack carried out by Hamas militants. Known as Yoni, he is being remembered as a devoted father who bravely stood against the Palestinian militant group. The incident occurred last week in the kibbutz of Be’eri, where Yoni lost his life.

Yoni’s mother, Noelle Rapoport, described him as a kind-hearted man with a wonderful sense of humor and an infectious smile. She emphasized that her son was greatly loved by the residents of the kibbutz, especially the older members whom he would always greet with a smile and offer assistance.

A verified video clip obtained by the BBC captured the moments leading up to the attack. It showed Hamas militants attempting to breach the gates of Be’eri and subsequently ambushing a passing car, killing its occupants. They then proceeded into the kibbutz, where they launched a day-long attack.

Friends and family are devastated by Yoni’s untimely death. His brother, Adam Rapoport, hailed him as a great father and a passionate gardener who loved nature. Golan Abitol, Yoni’s best friend, spoke fondly of him, stating that he was a gentle and loving person.

In recognition of Yoni’s unwavering support for Manchester United, the Israeli fan club of the football club released a statement expressing their admiration for his courage. The statement revealed that Yoni and his family were planning to attend a game at Old Trafford in the upcoming month, an outing he was especially excited to share with his son.

The UK government has confirmed that at least nine British nationals were killed in the Hamas attack, with seven more reported missing, potentially held hostage or deceased in Gaza. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has claimed the lives of over 1,400 individuals in Israel and resulted in over 3,700 deaths in Gaza following retaliatory air strikes by Israel.

The devastating consequences of the conflict have continued to emerge, with Roi, another British citizen, being confirmed dead. His sister, Ayelet Svatitzky, revealed that her brother was found shot dead behind his home. Additionally, their mother, Channah Peri, and another brother, Nadav Popplewell, were abducted by gunmen and have yet to be located.

Ms. Svatitzky holds Hamas responsible for the situation and urges the international community to do the same. She expressed her deep concern for her diabetic mother and surviving brother, emphasizing the urgency of their release.

As the stories of UK nationals who have lost their lives in the Israel-Gaza conflict continue to unfold, the true extent of the tragedy is becoming apparent. The loss of these individuals has brought immense sadness and grief to their loved ones and communities.