The Malka family, a trio of brothers who had been inseparable for 23 years, faced a tragic turning point during the battle in Khan Yunis. Born on the same day, the bond among the brothers remained strong until the IDF reported the fall of the first fighter in the southern Gaza Strip, Lieutenant Colonel Yonatan Malka.

In the midst of the war, the mother, Ronit, grappled with fear and anxiety, trying to disconnect from the news during the day and facing the uncertainty of war. Yonatan, recovering from an injury, insisted on joining the combat, emphasizing the importance of loyalty to friends during wartime.

("As children. Shira, Ariel and Yonathan Malka in their childhood)

The late Jonathan (from the left) next to Ariel and Shira

The family received the devastating news of Yonatan's death, leaving a profound impact on each member. Yonatan's commitment to both the land and the Torah was reflected in his actions and even in his WhatsApp status. He chose to fight until the end, embodying a deep sense of purpose.

The family's journey from the birth of triplets to their individual paths in life was marked by challenges and choices. Yonatan, despite facing educational gaps, found his place in a Chabad school, excelling in a different discourse that emphasized soulfulness.

Yonatan's tragic end came during a mission in Khan Yunis, where he absorbed the impact of a missile while serving in a tank. His death deeply affected his brothers, especially Ariel, who received the news while in the midst of his own combat.

The Malka family, bound by both blood and shared experiences, reflects on Yonatan's life, his unique tastes, and dreams. Yonatan's room, with its monastic character, holds a book titled "Letters of June," symbolizing his search for meaning and purpose in life.

The surviving siblings have pursued diverse paths, from aeronautics and space to the study of Islam and the Middle East. Yonatan's dream of therapeutic cycling and a passion for nature and gardening serve as lasting memories for the Malka family.

Yonatan's unwavering commitment to excellence, rooted in the family's values, continues to inspire his siblings as they navigate their individual journeys.