Defense Minister Katz Visits Wounded IDF Soldiers: 'You Carry Israel's Security on Your Shoulders'

Defense Minister Israel Katz conducted an emotional visit this morning (Monday) at Beilinson Hospital, where he met with IDF soldiers wounded during combat operations against Hezbollah terrorists in southern Lebanon.

The visit was coordinated with hospital director Dr. Lena Koren Feldman and deputy director Dr. Erez Karp and highlighted the medical teams' intensive efforts to save lives and rehabilitate wounded fighters as Israel's northern campaign continues.

During his time at the medical center, Katz met with soldiers from the Yahalom engineering unit, the Paratroopers Brigade, and Golani's reconnaissance unit who sustained injuries while engaging Hezbollah forces. The Defense Minister expressed profound gratitude for their courage and dedication, particularly noting their determination to recover and return to active duty alongside their fellow soldiers.

Katz met with Shay Li, a Golani reconnaissance soldier wounded in combat in southern Lebanon. In a gesture of solidarity, the Defense Minister signed the brigade's flag with a personal message: "To Shay Li, the hero from Golani reconnaissance. With great appreciation from a former paratrooper, Israel Katz, Defense Minister."

The exchange between the wounded soldier and Israel's defense chief proved particularly poignant. Shay Li conveyed a direct message to Katz: "We need to not stop - that's what's important."

The Defense Minister responded with assurance regarding Israel's strategic commitment. "We won't stop. We're operating in Iran, in Lebanon, and across all sectors. We absolutely understand what's required," Katz stated. "You and your comrades are carrying Israel's security on your shoulders right now - thanks to you, we can make the necessary decisions."

The visit comes as Israel expands its security buffer zone in southern Lebanon, with forces pushing deeper into Hezbollah-held territory. Recent weeks have seen multiple incidents resulting in casualties, including anti-tank missile strikes and drone attacks targeting Israeli forces operating across the border.

Following the hospital visit, Katz reflected on the experience. "I came to strengthen our heroic soldiers who were wounded in battle against our enemies in southern Lebanon - and they were the ones who strengthened me," the Defense Minister stated.

The medical staff at Beilinson presented Katz with detailed information regarding the specialized treatment protocols being implemented for combat casualties, emphasizing the coordinated efforts between trauma teams and rehabilitation specialists working to restore wounded soldiers to full health.