SAMARIA, West Bank — A tragic incident has left a community in mourning after an infant succumbed to injuries sustained during an attack that claimed the life of his mother. Two weeks after a terrorist shooting led to the death of Tzeela Gez, her newborn, Raviv Chaim, passed away in a hospital.
Raviv was born under dire circumstances and spent his short life in critical condition at Schneider Children’s Medical Center. His father, Hananel Gez, received the heartbreaking news of his son’s death early Thursday morning. In a statement, the medical center shared its sorrow, noting the dedicated efforts of the staff to save the infant. “Despite the intensive care provided, we regret to announce that Raviv could not overcome his injuries,” the statement said. The facility extended its deepest condolences to the grieving family.
The attack took place in Samaria, a region fraught with tension. Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, described the events as a “double murder” that demands a robust response. He called for increased construction and development in memory of the victims, asserting a collective resolve to honor their legacy. “We will stand with the family always,” he stated.
Community leaders echoed Dagan’s sentiments. Meital Ben Yosef, the chair of the Bruchin settlement, expressed profound sorrow over the loss. “This is a baby who was meant to enter this world with joy but instead faced an unspeakable tragedy,” she said, emphasizing the need for resilience and commitment to the region. She assured that the community would not remain silent in the face of violence, pledging to strengthen their presence and assert their rights to the land.
While Raviv did not have a traditional brit milah, a naming ceremony was held for him, honoring the name chosen by his mother. Family and friends gathered in a show of solidarity, praying for the infant’s recovery and sharing the emotional weight of their collective loss. The psalm “A Song of Ascents: I lift my eyes to the mountains” resonated in the air as they hoped for a miracle.
Despite their efforts, the news of Raviv’s passing has shaken the community to its core, intensifying calls for justice and the remembrance of both mother and child. The acts of violence affecting families continue to provoke strong reactions from leaders and residents alike, prompting them to seek solutions that ensure peace and security in the region. The tragic circumstances surrounding Raviv and Tzeela Gez serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict that impacts countless lives daily.