Trigger warning: This article discusses sensitive topics such as suicide.
The remains of Captain (res.) Yosef Haim Ashraf, 28, were found on Thursday night in the Swiss forest near Tiberias, the Tiberias Municipality said on Friday.
It is suspected that he ended his own life, according to the municipality. His funeral was held on Friday at the local military cemetery.
Israel Police have opened an investigation into the incident, and the findings would be forwarded to the Military Advocate General for review, according to Israeli media.
Capt. Ashraf served in the 99th Division in the Gaza Strip, Ynet reported.
Since the beginning of the year, 16 IDF service personnel have committed suicide, not including Ashraf. In 2024, there were 21 cases.
Increase in number of suicide cases
Brig. Gen. Amir Vadmani of the IDF Personnel Directorate said several weeks ago at a committee meeting that the rise in suicides in the IDF parallels the increase in the number of reservists serving. “There is an increase in the number of suicide incidents, and that is not surprising. This is not a wave, but such cases should not happen. In 2024–2025, hundreds of thousands of reservists are serving, on a scale not seen in 2022–2023.”
When asked whether he could say how many cases remain in doubt, he replied: “I do not want to address that. Each case is under investigation, and I will not disclose the data - you are welcome to dismiss what I say.”
If you or someone close to you is experiencing distress, the Eran Association provides life-saving mental first aid service 24/7 to every person, of any age and in any distress. Assistance is provided anonymously and immediately.
The hotline for soldiers and their families is available at *2201 or 1201 on the Eran website eran.org.il or on WhatsApp at (052) 845-1201.
Walla contributed to this report.