IDF Major Asael Babad Dies After Critical Gaza Injury

Major Asael Babad, a 38-year-old father of five from the Bnei Adam settlement, has died from wounds he sustained during fighting in southern Gaza three months ago.

Babad was critically injured on October 19, 2025, during combat operations in Rafah. He had been fighting for his life in the hospital ever since.

He was just two weeks away from his 39th birthday. He leaves behind his wife Hagit and five children: Tamar, Shai, Ayala, Gilad, and Noga. Babad is the 60th resident of the Binyamin Regional Council to fall since the war began.

Israel Gantz, head of the Binyamin Council and chairman of the Yesha Council, mourned him: "Asael fought bravely on the front lines in Gaza and was wounded in a vicious attack by Hamas terrorists after a ceasefire that was violated again and again. Even after being critically injured, he continued to fight courageously for his life for months, driven by great faith, determination, and deep love for his family and the people of Israel."

Friends from Bnei Adam described his struggle: "Asaael fought heroically in Gaza, demolishing terror structures under constant danger. Over these past months, he fought just as hard for his recovery. Despite terrible injuries and excruciating pain, he did everything he could to rehabilitate and return to his family, with incredible faith and determination. We're heartbroken that his fierce battle ended today."

Jewish Breaking News explained that Asael was able to take part in the bris of his cousin’s newborn son just two and a half weeks ago.

Babad's funeral will be held today (Thursday) at 3:00 PM at the military cemetery on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem.

The Binyamin Regional Council and the family have requested that the funeral not be open to media coverage. The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time and is not interested in giving interviews.

May his memory be a blessing.