AHEAD OF NORTHERN DEPLOYMENT

From Gaza to the North: "Netzah Yehuda" Honors Fighters

The Haredi battalion wrapped up two years of intense operational service in the Gaza Strip with a emotional gathering ahead of its next mission along Israel's northern border. The event included tribute to fallen comrades, recognition of standout soldiers, and spiritual preparation for the challenges ahead

Ariel Sharfer

AUG 9, 2026 17:50

2 min read

The IDF’s "Netzah Yehuda" Battalion marked a major operational pivot this week, concluding two years of combat deployment in the Gaza Strip as commanders and troops prepare to redeploy to Israel's northern front.

The transition was marked by a battalion evening that brought together soldiers, commanders, and rabbis from Shomer Yisrael, the primary organization supporting Haredi service in the IDF. The event served as both a reflection on two years of military achievements in Gaza and a preparation for the road ahead.

Honoring the Fallen

Alongside operational pride, the evening centered on remembering the battalion's fallen soldiers. In a poignant moment, the father of Staff Sergeant Noam Masgadian, who was killed in action by an explosive device in Beit Hanoun, lit a memorial candle together with Noam’s operational company commander, who fought alongside him in that same battle.

The battalion also recognized current soldiers, handing out certificates of appreciation to outstanding troops from every company for their dedication and combat spirit.

Faith and Protection

Rabbi Shaul Avdiel of Shomer Yisrael emphasized the unit's unique role within the IDF. "The Netzah Yehuda Battalion protects the people of Israel with its very body, combining Torah with action, combat, and defense."

Yossi Levy, CEO of Shomer Yisrael, echoed those sentiments, noting that the soldiers "prove every day that the book and the sword meet on the battlefield".

To wrap up the event, rabbis held a special "Blessing of the Sons" ceremony for the troops, presenting each soldier with green tactical dry-fit tzitzit designed for field use, alongside pocket editions of the Siddur and Tehillim for spiritual protection on the northern border.

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