The IDF spokesperson announced this morning (Wednesday) the tragic deaths of three soldiers and a military paramedic in a building explosion in Rafah, located in southern Gaza. The incident occurred yesterday during an operational mission when a building exploded, impacting the IDF force. In addition to the four fallen soldiers, five others were injured, three critically and two moderately.
The fallen soldiers are Captain Daniel Maimon Toaf (23) from Morasha, Staff Sergeant Agam Naim (20) from Mishmarot, Staff Sergeant Amit Bakri (21) from Yoshibia, and Staff Sergeant Dotan Shimon (21) from Elazar. Each leaves behind a loving family and many friends struggling to cope with the devastating loss.
Captain Daniel Maimon Toaf served as the deputy company commander in the Shaked Battalion of the Givati Brigade. His comrades describe him as a dedicated and beloved leader who always cared for his soldiers and set a personal example. “Daniel was a brave fighter and an inspiring commander,” one of his subordinates said. “He was always the first to volunteer for dangerous missions and never hesitated to risk himself for his friends.”
Staff Sergeant Agam Naim, the military paramedic from Battalion 52 of the 401st Armored Brigade, is the first female soldier killed in Gaza since the war began. Her friends speak of a talented and devoted young woman who chose the medical profession to save lives. “Agam was a light in all our lives,” her close friend shared. “She always dreamed of becoming a doctor and helping others. Even in the toughest conditions, she remained optimistic and kept smiling.”
Amit Bakri and Dotan Shimon
Staff Sergeants Amit Bakri and Dotan Shimon were fighters in the Shaked Battalion of the Givati Brigade. They were described by their commanders as exemplary soldiers with high motivation and a strong spirit of volunteering. “Amit and Dotan were the heart and soul of the unit,” their commander said. “They were always the first to volunteer for difficult missions and always encouraged their comrades.”
Dotan Shimon’s Family Tragedy
The tragedy of the Shimon family deepens further, as Dotan is the second child they have lost. His sister, Nofar, was killed in a car accident several years ago. Professor Haim Shaked, a family friend, wrote sorrowfully, “Out of three children, the parents now have only one son left. A terrible disaster.”
President Herzog’s Tribute
President Isaac Herzog paid tribute to the four fallen soldiers: “A very sad morning. Four brave souls – a heroic paramedic and three courageous soldiers – have fallen, and their comrades were injured in the fierce battles in Gaza yesterday. I embrace their families and loved ones. May the memory of Staff Sergeant Agam Naim, Staff Sergeant Amit Bakri, Captain Daniel Maimon Toaf, and Staff Sergeant Dotan Shimon be blessed and forever cherished in our hearts.”
The IDF continues its operational activities in Gaza, striving to protect the lives of soldiers and achieve the objectives of the war.
