Honoring the Courage and Sacrifice of Israel’s Heroes

“To my dear wife, I am writing to you again from the far north. I hope it’s the last time. I am here, happy and proud to do something important for our nation. I ask you to continue to smile and keep your head up. I love you very much.”
– Lt. Ivri Dickstein, in his final note before making the ultimate sacrifice.

In the ongoing war to defend Israel’s sovereignty, the cost of freedom weighs heavily on the shoulders of families, soldiers, and civilians alike. Each life lost is a story of courage, dedication, and immeasurable sacrifice. Among the fallen is Lt. Ivri Dickstein, who was killed in Lebanon while defending Israel. In his final act of love, he ordered flowers for his wife before his last mission—a powerful reminder of the humanity and love woven into even the darkest times. His words, filled with hope and pride, are a testament to the deep resolve of Israel’s defenders.

On Israel’s northern front, three more young lives were taken in the battle against Hamas’s relentless terror campaign. Staff Sgt. Noam Eitan, Cpt. Yogev Pazy, and Sgt. First Class (res.) Idan Keinan of the Kfir Brigade gave their lives during fierce fighting in Gaza’s Beit Lahiya. Cpt. Pazy’s family is no stranger to sacrifice—he was the nephew of former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot. Their loss brings the toll of Israel’s fallen soldiers in Gaza to 378 since the ground offensive began, a staggering number that underscores the price paid to protect the nation’s future. The death toll among Israeli troops on all fronts since Hamas’s Oct. 7, 2023, cross-border massacre now stands at 798, according to official figures.

Heartbreaking Courage

Among the most gut-wrenching realities of this war are the hostages still held by Hamas—97 remain in captivity, including civilians, soldiers, and children. For over a year, their families have held on to hope, attending rallies and pleading for their safe return. The stories of those who have been lost, including those who died heroically during the October 7 invasion, serve as both a call to prayer and a call to action for all who stand with Israel.

Lt. Ivri’s poignant words to his wife echo a truth we must carry forward: even in the face of overwhelming darkness, love, courage, and faith prevail. As Christian Women for Israel, we are called to stand with Israel’s families and pray fervently for their healing, strength, and eventual reunification. 

Click here to read more about the hostages and those we have lost.

A Call to Prayer

We lift up the families of Israel’s fallen heroes in prayer, asking God to comfort them in their grief and strengthen them for the days ahead. We pray for the safe return of every hostage still held by Hamas and for peace to prevail in the Land of Israel.

Today’s Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts for the families who have lost loved ones defending Israel. We ask that You pour out Your peace, comfort, and healing over them. Strengthen their spirits and remind them that their loved ones’ sacrifices are not in vain. We also pray for the safe return of the hostages and for an end to the hatred that fuels this conflict. Let Your justice reign and Your love be a light in the darkness. Amen.