Heroic Civilians Defend Kibbutz Sufa from Deadly Attack
A four-member civilian team at Kibbutz Sufa heroically thwarted a potential massacre against overwhelming odds. Despite being outnumbered, their courageous resistance was crucial in preventing further casualties during the attack by terrorists on October 7, as detailed in a recent investigation by the Israel Defence Forces.
- Country:
- Israel
In a remarkable display of bravery, a civilian security team at Kibbutz Sufa successfully repelled a serious assault by terrorists on October 7. According to an investigation by the Israel Defence Forces released this week, the four-member team prevented a large-scale massacre despite facing overwhelming odds and minimal preparation.
The offensive began early in the morning, with a tank from the Sufa divisional company clashing with terrorists and reducing the attack's vigor. At 6:45 AM, security chief Eliya Natan Lilienthal prepared the team for combat. The terrorists breached the kibbutz at 6:52 AM, killing Reserve Major Ofir Erez and later resident Bernard Cowen. Lilienthal played a pivotal role by personally eliminating two terrorists at 7:34 AM, quelling the initial threat.
In the protracted conflict at the nearby Sufa army camp, nine soldiers were killed and 30 wounded. Subsequently, a second wave of around 30 terrorists targeted the kibbutz's northern orchards. Reinforcements arrived in the afternoon, aiding the civilian team in neutralizing the threat. Military forces cleared the area by evening, commending the team for their tenacity. The event underscores failures in defense strategy and intelligence, prompting criticism of the army's recent handling of intelligence about Hamas's activities.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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