IDF Clears for Publication: Staff Sgt. Michael Tyukin, 21, a Givati Soldier, Killed in Combat in Southern Lebanon

The IDF cleared for publication this morning (Sunday) that Staff Sgt. Michael Tyukin, 21, from Ashkelon, a fighter in the Givati Reconnaissance Unit (846) of the Givati Brigade, fell in combat in southern Lebanon after being hit in a drone attack by the Hezbollah terror organization.

The incident took place last night at around 10:30 p.m., as Givati Reconnaissance forces were operating in the village of Zotar al-Sharqiya in southern Lebanon, north of the Litani River. According to the initial details of the investigation, Hezbollah identified the force's activity in the area and launched a drone attack at them. One of the drones hit a Humvee jeep in which the soldiers were operating.

As a result of the drone strike, Staff Sgt. Tyukin, Hashem yikom damo, was killed. In addition, four other soldiers from the Givati Reconnaissance Unit were lightly wounded. All of the wounded were evacuated for medical treatment, and their families were notified.

Following the publication of the soldier's death, Ashkelon Mayor Tomer Glam paid tribute to him: "Our hearts are broken, and the entire city of Ashkelon is mourning and grieving over the fall of Staff Sgt. Michael Tyukin, a resident of the city, a fighter in the Givati Reconnaissance Unit who fell in battle defending the homeland in southern Lebanon," Glam said.

The mayor added, "Michael, of blessed memory, was his mother's only child. The Ashkelon Municipality will stand by the mother in her difficult hour and provide her with all the assistance required. Our sincere condolences from the depths of our hearts. May Michael's memory be a blessing."