IDF Clears for Publication: Reservist Basel Sweid Killed During Operational Activity in Southern Lebanon

The IDF cleared for publication this morning (Thursday) that Master Sgt. (res.) Basel Sweid, 32, of Peki'in, a driver in Battalion 75 of the 'סער מגולן' (7) Brigade, was killed during operational activity in southern Lebanon. His family has been notified. In the accident in which Sweid was killed, another IDF soldier was also moderately wounded. His funeral will leave today at 17:00.

The accident took place last night at around 11:00 p.m. in the village of Rab a-Thalatin in southern Lebanon, one of the Shiite villages where IDF forces are operating as part of Operation "Roar of the Lion." During operational activity in the area, the vehicle in which Sweid was traveling overturned for reasons that have not yet been clarified. The IDF has opened an investigation into the circumstances of the accident. 

The Peki'in Council eulogized him: "With great sorrow and deep pain, we offer our sincere condolences to the Sweid family, and especially to the family and all the residents of Peki'in, on the death of a son of the community, a reservist soldier, a man of fine character and good name

Sweid served as an operations coordinator in the administrative management of Rambam Hospital in Haifa. When news of his death became known, the hospital expressed shock and deep sorrow over the loss of their colleague.

Rambam Director General Dr. Michal Makel eulogized him and said: "This is a very sad day for the entire Rambam family — to wake up to such devastating news. Our hearts are broken. Basel served hundreds of reserve duty days in recent years, a person who gave of himself above and beyond for Israeli society, and here at Rambam too he was very well known for his dedication, diligence, and willingness to help, all of which were always accompanied by a smile."

Rambam's Deputy Director of Human Resources, Operations and Infrastructure, Nissim Haim, also mourned Sweid: "Basel was a dedicated, beloved, and highly respected employee, who set an example of commitment, responsibility, and giving — both at the hospital and in public service. Just about two weeks ago, Basel's photo appeared on the hospital's screens as part of a campaign honoring Rambam's reserve service members. Today, that same photo takes on an especially painful meaning."