Do Skeletal Remains Belong to Israeli MIAs?
An Israeli farmer found a skeleton dressed in a military uniform and boots in a bunker in a minefield in Israel’s Upper Galilee, near Kibbutz Snir, on Wednesday morning. It is unclear as to whether the remains belong to an Israeli or a Syrian soldier, but it is appears that they date back to one of the battles that took place many years ago in the area.
The agricultural worker, Yossi Egozi, said, “I found the skull in one spot, and the skeleton next to it.” He immediately alerted the authorities upon making the discovery. The removal of the remains will be a careful operation, given the dangerous surroundings. The bones will be taken to the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute for study.
Initial hopes are that the remains may belong to either Guy Hever or Magdi Halabi, both Israeli MIA’s. However, this seems unlikely given that there is no evidence of either soldier having been in this location before their disappearances. There is a greater chance that the bones belong to a Syrian soldier, as remains of other Syrian soldiers have been found nearby in the Golan Heights, though none were still in military uniform.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
