Petah Tikva, Israel — A tragic shooting in Samaria has claimed the lives of a mother and her newborn son, stirring outrage and grief throughout the community. Tzeela Gez was on her way to the delivery room when she was fatally shot by an assailant. Her infant, Raviv Chaim, fought for life after being delivered prematurely but succumbed to his injuries days later.
Raviv passed away early Thursday at Schneider Children’s Medical Center, where he had been in a neonatal intensive care unit in critical condition. In a heartfelt statement, the hospital expressed its condolences to the bereaved family, acknowledging the tireless efforts of its medical staff to save the infant’s life.
The father, Hananel Gez, received the heartbreaking news of his son’s death while at the hospital. The community has rallied in mourning, with many calling this incident a double tragedy. Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, described the situation as a double murder and urged a strong response, advocating for a memorial construction project in honor of both Tzeela and Raviv. “We will stand by the family always,” he affirmed.
Meital Ben Yosef, chairperson of the Bruchin settlement, added to the sentiment, emphasizing the loss felt within the community. She lamented that a life meant to be filled with joy ended in such horrific violence. “We will not stay silent. This vile act should not go unchallenged,” she stated, promising that the community would work to honor the memory of the mother and child while asserting their commitment to their ancestral homeland.
Although Raviv did not experience the traditional brit milah, a ritual circumcision, a special naming ceremony was held, honoring the name his mother had preselected. Family and friends gathered to pray for the infant’s recovery, expressing their faith through song and psalm.
The violent act has drawn widespread condemnation, raising awareness about ongoing tensions in the region. As the community grapples with this profound loss, calls for action and remembrance echo throughout the area, underscoring the enduring struggle and resilience of those impacted by violence. Supporters remain committed to ensuring that Tzeela and Raviv’s memory lives on, symbolizing both the pain of loss and the hope for a peaceful future.