Sgt. Itay Shoham, 21, from Rosh Ha'ayin, a soldier in the Commando Brigade, was killed in Gaza, the IDF announced on Monday,
During the ground operation, Shoham bravely fought in the northern Gaza Strip.
At just 21 years old, he left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
'A fearless fighter'
Israeli journalist Hanoch Daum expressed his condolences on Facebook.
"Just look at the smile on his radiant face," he said. "Thank you for standing up to the enemy without fear, fighting relentlessly since that Black Shabbat, purging nests of terrorists until you fell in defense of the homeland. Rest in peace."
The municipality of Rosh Ha'ayin also paid a tribute to Shohan.
"We mourn the loss of a resident of our city, commando fighter Itay Shoham, who fell in battle in the northern Gaza Strip," read their statement. "Our hearts go out to his family as they grieve. Itay is survived by his parents and three brothers."