IDF Announces Death of Reservist Asael Babad
Sgt. Maj. (res.) Asael Babad, 38, an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reservist, succumbed to injuries on Thursday, January 22, 2026, that he sustained during combat operations in Rafah, located in the southern Gaza Strip. His death raises the toll of Israeli soldiers killed during the ground offensive in Gaza to 477.
Details of the Incident
Babad, an infantryman with the Menashe Regional Brigade's 941st Battalion, was severely wounded on October 19, 2025. The incident occurred when Palestinian operatives launched an anti-tank missile strike against an engineering vehicle in Rafah. This attack took place less than a week after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas had come into effect. According to an IDF probe, the operatives emerged from a tunnel on the Israeli side of the ceasefire line. The same incident resulted in the deaths of two other soldiers, Major Yaniv Kula, 26, and Second Lieutenant Itay Yavetz, 21. At the time of his injury, Babad was serving with the Gaza Division as a heavy machinery operator.
Personal Background and Funeral
Babad, a resident of the West Bank settlement of Bnei Adam (also referred to as Geva Binyamin), is survived by his wife, Hagit, and their five children: Tamar, Shai, Ayala, Gilad, and Noga. His family made the decision to donate his organs. The funeral for Sgt. Maj. (res.) Asael Babad was scheduled to take place on Thursday afternoon, January 22, 2026, at the military cemetery on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem.
Broader Context of Casualties
Babad's death contributes to the overall number of Israeli military casualties in the ongoing conflict. The figure of 477 specifically refers to those killed during the ground offensive in the Gaza Strip and military operations along its border. The broader conflict has seen a higher number of Israeli military fatalities, with some reports indicating over 900 soldiers killed since the war began.
5 Comments
Coccinella
The death of Sgt. Maj. Babad is a profound tragedy for his family and community, and his service should be recognized. Yet, the persistent casualties underscore the urgent need for a political resolution that addresses the root causes of this conflict.
Mariposa
While the sacrifice of soldiers like Babad is undeniable, this article highlights the continued human cost of operations in Rafah, even post-ceasefire. Both sides need to commit to lasting peace, not just temporary pauses in fighting.
ZmeeLove
The loss of any life in this conflict is tragic, and my heart goes out to Asael Babad's wife and five children. Still, the increasing casualty count on both sides demands a serious re-evaluation of strategies to protect civilians and secure a sustainable future for everyone in the region.
Bermudez
Another life lost for what? This endless war is senseless.
Muchacha
Rafah is a death trap. This occupation and constant conflict must end.