The IDF authorized the publication this morning (Sunday) that Staff Sergeant Michael Tyukin, 21, of Ashkelon, a fighter in the Givati Patrol, fell in battle in southern Lebanon as a result of an explosive drone strike. Michael was promoted from the rank of sergeant to the rank of staff sergeant after his death as a sign of appreciation for his service and bravery. Four fighters were lightly injured in the incident.
The mayor of Ashkelon paid tribute: “The heart is broken and the entire city of Ashkelon mourns and grieves over the fall of Sergeant Michael Tyukin, a resident of the city, a fighter in the Givati Patrol (846), who fell in battle for the defense of the homeland in southern Lebanon, aged 19 when he fell. The late Michael was his mother’s only son. The Ashkelon Municipality will accompany the mother in her difficult time and will provide her with all the assistance she needs. Our sincere condolences from the bottom of our hearts.
“May the memory of Michael be blessed and we will cherish him forever. Michael, as mentioned, was the only son of his mother and they immigrated to Israel from Ukraine in 2020 and lived in Ashkelon. Additional details about the funeral will be provided later.”
Last Friday, the Chief of Staff, Maj. Gen. Eyal Zamir, addressed the drone threat during his visit to Division 210, after this formation became one of Hezbollah’s main tools in attempting to harm maneuvering forces and the Israeli rear.
According to the Chief of Staff: “The drone threat is a challenge, but we can overcome it. The battlefield is not sterile and will never be so, but we are investing the best resources, minds and capabilities of the IDF in this. Operational and technological solutions are already in the development and implementation stages, and we will continue to introduce them to the battlefield quickly.”