Capt. Itai Cohen, z”l

Captain Itai Cohen, the eldest son of Ortal and Yaniv, and brother to Ofek and Noam, was born in Baltimore, Maryland, United States. When he was six months old, his family returned to Israel and settled in the city of Rehovot.

Itai was a bright and handsome child. He attended the “Shazar” elementary school in Rehovot. In junior high and high school, Itai studied at the Science Center, specializing in physics and robotics. He was an outstanding student – loved, cheerful, and charismatic – a leader and a social figure. In his free time, Itai took part in programs at the Davidson Institute of Science. He loved mathematics and logic games and enjoyed sports, practicing several types.

In December 2019, Itai enlisted in the Engineering Corps, in the elite Yahalom Unit. He completed the demanding training course and went on to officer training. For his first assignment as an officer, Itai chose to serve in an Engineering Corps battalion rather than in a special unit. To his soldiers in the battalion, Itai was a commander, mentor, friend, and older brother.

Itai returned to Yahalom. In his last position, he was commander of the unit’s subterranean team. Itai’s soldiers speak of him as an admired, loved, and caring commander. His colleagues describe a commander who stood far above others, principled and modest, an inspiration in leadership and dedication.

Itai was supposed to finish his position at the end of October 2023. He had signed up for another four years of career service. As an outstanding officer, Itai was selected to travel at the end of his position to the United States for a unique training with the U.S. Rangers. After the training, he planned a vacation in the United States – attending live concerts, NBA basketball games, and meeting friends. He was supposed to return to Israel and study for a bachelor’s degree, at the end of which he was expected to be appointed a squadron commander in Yahalom.

On October 7, 2023, Simchat Torah 5784, Hamas launched a murderous surprise attack on Israel. Under the cover of barrages of thousands of rockets, thousands of armed terrorists crossed the border into Israel, infiltrating cities and taking control of communities, outposts, and bases. The terrorists murdered around eight hundred civilians and abducted hundreds of Israelis to the Gaza Strip. Hundreds of security personnel fell in battle. Following the attack, Israel entered a state of war. That morning, Itai was at home. Without being called up, he mobilized himself and went out to defend the communities of the Gaza envelope.

On October 7, 2023, Itai fell in heroic battle during an encounter with terrorists in Kibbutz Alumim. He was 22 years old. Itai was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Rehovot. During that “Black Saturday,” a few hours before he fell, Itai’s sister asked him how he was feeling. Itai gave an answer that became his will: “No feelings – only commitment.”

May his memory be blessed.