Israeli Soldier's Heartbreaking Farewell Letter Published After He Fell in Gaza

Captain Ree'i Biran, a 21-year-old team commander in the Golani Reconnaissance Unit, was killed in Khan Younis, Gaza, on Thursday evening in an IDF landmine explosion. On Saturday night, his partner, Avia Rothschild, posted a moving farewell letter he left for her on Instagram.

In the letter, Biran wrote, “My Avia, if you’re reading this, I’m probably gone. I promised I’d protect myself the way I protect you, but I guess I fell short, Aviyoli. It was for a greater cause, I defended our home, your home.” He poured out his love, saying, “You showed me what true, limitless love is… Avia, you’re the purest soul I know.” He encouraged her to stay strong, adding, “Whenever you feel a little lost, look up at the sky, I’m there, watching over you from above.”

Biran ended with, “I truly hoped you’d never have to read this. I love you to the ends of the earth and back. Your Re'i.” Avia shared, “We were one of those timeless couples, destined to walk down the aisle together.”

Biran was laid to rest on Friday in the military cemetery in Nahalal.