Four IDF soldiers were lightly wounded in the incident that killed Tyukin.

Staff Sergeant Michael Tyukin.

(photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON UNIT)

ByJERUSALEM POST STAFF

MAY 31, 2026 07:29

Updated: MAY 31, 2026 11:46

Staff Sgt. Michael Tyukin lost his life after a Hezbollah drone exploded in southern Lebanon, the IDF stated Sunday morning.

Staff Sgt. Tyukin, aged 21 and residing in Ashkelon, belonged to the Givati Reconnaissance Battalion within the Givati Brigade.

He immigrated from Ukraine six years earlier alongside his mother and remains their sole child.

"The entire city of Ashkelon is in pain and mourning his death," said Ashkelon Mayor Tomer Galam. "Michael was his mother's only son. The Ashkelon Municipality will accompany his mother through this difficult time and provide her with all the assistance she needs."

Four IDF soldiers were lightly wounded in the incident that killed Tyukin.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended his condolences to Tyukin's mother on Sunday morning, on behalf of himself, his wife, Sarah, and "on behalf of all citizens of Israel."

Together with his comrades, he fought heroically deep within Lebanese territory to protect the security of Israel and the communities of the North," Netanyahu said. "May Michael's memory be blessed and enshrined in our hearts forever."

He also wished the soldiers wounded in the incident a "full and speedy recovery."

IDF pushes north past Litani River, takes Beaufort Ridge outpost

IDF ground troops crossed the Litani River, entering and securing the Beaufort Ridge and Wadi al-Saluki areas of southern Lebanon, the military announced on Sunday morning.

The operation began several days ago with the goal of eliminating the threat Hezbollah poses to the citizens of northern Israel, and is currently expanding to additional areas.

Ahead of the troops' entry, the Israel Air Force conducted extensive support strikes against Hezbollah infrastructure in the area.

Rami Shani contributed to this report.