Jerusalem native Sgt. Roi Daoui lost his life during the IDF's Operation Swords of Iron in the Gaza Strip.
At just 20 years old, Daoui served as a platoon commander in an army battalion within the Givati Brigade. His mother, Betty, spoke to Army Radio, sharing her profound grief over the loss of her son.
The last message Roi sent to his family was shared in a widely-circulated social media post: "If I must die, let it be just like this."
An IDF soldier's final message to his family before dying in battle with Hamas in Gaza
"In my final moments, Mom, Dad, Nitzani, Eden, and Tomer, I want you to know that I love you," Roi wrote in his last message. "You've been the best family a person could ask for. If I am to die, let it be like this. I just hope we flatten Gaza before this reaches you.
"I have no regrets; I've had the best IDF service I could ask for," he said. "We have a band of lion-hearted warriors, and I'm honored to lead them... The reason for my commitment is the cherished Land of Israel and all those who stand for it. Let [others] continue to refuse showing up for IDF reservist duty; in the meantime, we are heading into Gaza."
Addressing his beloved Nitzani, he said, "My love, you are my little angel. I am immensely grateful for your presence and the invaluable lessons you've taught me. You are a true champion, and I urge you to believe in yourself."
Turning to his friends, he added, "To my friends, thank you. I am who I am because of each of you."
In a message to his parents and siblings, he said, "Mom and Dad, I know you didn't want to worry me, which is why you didn't call. You've been everything I ever wished for and more. Promise me one thing - make sure Mom continues going Hapoel games, but this time, with you! To my siblings Eden and Tomer, few bonds are as strong as ours. You've been a sanctuary for me in every way, setting an example and serving as role models as elder siblings should. Keep up the great work."
Roi's mother shared her poignant memories, saying, "That morning, I had a feeling that he was gone. His last call was on Friday; he mentioned he was turning off his phone and told us he loved us. We sensed it was the end. As soon as we heard a knock at the door, my husband's scream confirmed our worst fears. We were bracing ourselves for their arrival; deep down, we knew."
She also revealed her son's aspirations, stating, "Roi had big dreams of conquering the world; he wasn't content with anything less. He wanted to study communications, and becoming a journalist was his ultimate dream. His knowledge was vast, and if you asked children a question, they could always count on him for a 100% accurate answer."
Sgt. Daoui, along with seven other Givati Brigade soldiers, lost his life in a battle in the northern Gaza Strip. During this clash, terrorists launched an anti-tank missile at an armored military vehicle, claiming the lives of those inside.
The Jerusalem Post and OneFamily are working together to help support the victims of the Hamas massacre and the soldiers of Israel who have been drafted to ensure that it never happens again.