The murder of Benaya Malat HY”D is another heartbreaking reminder of the reality facing Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria. Benaya, 32, the head of security and agriculture for Havat Gilad, rushed to protect a group of Jewish hikers, including children, who came under attack from neighboring jihadi Muslims.

What makes this tragedy even more painful is what the released video appears to show. Rather than immediately opening fire, Benaya and the other armed Jews, including IDF soldiers, attempted to de-escalate the confrontation. Benaya even used his rifle as a defensive tool instead of firing it. During the struggle, one of the attackers, the village Sheikh, grabbed his rifle and shot Benaya.