2023-10-13 21:49:49
The war that terrorists from the Hamas group started against Israel has left thousands dead and injured, including the son of a local pastor named David Ratner, just 20 years old.
The young man died in combat while serving as a soldier in the Israel Defense Forces in the southern part of the country, the region where most terrorist attacks are concentrated, and where there is the largest Jewish military detachment.
Since the war began, Israel has called up almost 400,000 reservists to form its defense forces alongside its active military, which totals 160,000.
Ratner was a soldier in the 13th Golani Battalion, and his father serves as pastor of the Beit Hallel congregation in Ashdod. The young man was also part of the church, being what the locals call a Messianic Jew, which means being a Christian with Jewish roots.
Commotion
After Ratner’s death, the church led by his father and friends spoke out on social media, mourning the soldier’s death.
“Our hearts are with Haim and Miriam Ratner on the immense loss of their son, David Ratner. Haim is one of the pastors of the messianic congregation Beit Halel. David aged 20 was killed in action. He is now with the Lord,” a statement reads.
The soldier’s friends and family highlighted his bravery for defending his country. Since Hamas terrorists began their attack on Israel, more than 5,000 rockets have been launched against the country, the vast majority of which are aimed at civilian targets.
“He gave his life defending his country. We are heartbroken,” the statement said. Friends also mourned the fighter’s untimely death. “No, my brother, please, David, my brother, no, my brother!” he wrote a follower.
Pastor and businessman Silas Malafaia even published a video to criticize those who came to the defense of Hamas terrorists. The religious leader made a series of considerations, remembering the history of the Jewish and Palestinian people. Watch:
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