Thousands Mourn Israeli Mother Killed in Terror Attack While Heading to Give Birth

JERUSALEM – Jerusalem — A somber crowd of thousands gathered Thursday evening in Jerusalem to bury Tze’ela Gez, a young mother of three who was killed in a terror shooting while traveling to the hospital to give birth to her fourth child.

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The funeral took place at Har HaMenuchot cemetery, where Tze’ela’s husband, Hananel, stood before mourners and described her as “the light of my life” and “a woman of deep compassion.” The two had been en route from their home in Bruchin to the hospital late Wednesday night when their car came under fire near the town of Peduel, in the Samaria region.

Tze’ela, who was nine months pregnant, was critically injured in the attack. She was taken to Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva, where doctors were unable to save her life despite extensive efforts. Her baby was delivered in an emergency procedure and remains in serious but stable condition. Hananel suffered light injuries and has since been released from the hospital.

Family members spoke of a life devoted to others. “You gave so much love,” her sister said through tears. “There are no words to express this loss.” Another sister, addressing her young children, told them their mother “always smiled, even through hardship.”

Senior public officials also attended the funeral, including former Chief Rabbi David Lau and Minister Orit Strock. Rabbi Lau offered a prayer for the newborn’s future, while Strock called the killing “an attack on all that is good in our nation” and urged a firm response against terrorism.

But politics took a backseat as grief overwhelmed the gathering. When one official attempted to speak about policy and retaliation, a family member interrupted him, asking that the focus remain on Tze’ela’s memory.

Tze’ela’s death has stirred deep sorrow across Israel, particularly in Samaria, where residents are calling for increased security. The attack has reignited calls for stronger deterrence measures and a reassessment of safety in areas vulnerable to terror.

Hananel, despite the personal tragedy, shared a public message of faith and resilience: “Of course I’m broken, but I’m alive. I will continue to be a light. We will not be broken.”

Tze’ela is survived by her husband, three children, and her newborn son, who entered the world as his mother’s life was taken.