On December 5, 2023, Yehonatan Malka was killed in combat in the Gaza Strip during fighting against Hamas. His brother, Ariel Malka, was granted temporary leave to return to Israel and attend Yehonatan’s funeral, which took place the following day. In Ariel’s absence, Amit Malka, who had not yet completed his officer training, was appointed to lead the unit, reflecting the trust his commanders placed in his leadership abilities.

Meanwhile, Noa and Itzik Malka, Amit’s parents, had not heard from him for some time. Itzik attended Yehonatan Malka’s funeral in order to meet Ariel and inquire about Amit’s wellbeing. Tragically, while Itzik was at the funeral, Amit was killed in Saja’iya, a neighborhood in Gaza City. The devastating news was delivered to the family by an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) representative shortly after, when only their other child, Adi, was at home.

Upon returning from Yehonatan’s funeral, Itzik was confronted with the officers bearing the news of Amit’s death. Faced with the painful question of which son had died, Itzik was informed it was Amit. Over 1,000 mourners attended Amit’s funeral, and throughout the shiva, the family received hundreds of visitors from diverse backgrounds — religious, secular, and ultra-Orthodox — who shared memories of Amit’s kindness and considerate nature.

After the shiva, Noa and Itzik visited the grave of Eyal Meir Berkowitz, another IDF soldier killed in Gaza on December 7. This prompted them to visit Berkowitz’s family in Susya, as well as another bereaved family in the nearby community of Asa’el. The couple continued offering support to grieving families and wounded soldiers in hospitals.

Noa established a WhatsApp group for bereaved mothers to provide a space for emotional support and address practical needs. In December 2025, following a terror attack during Hanukkah in Bondi Beach, Australia, Noa and Itzik traveled privately to console affected families. They shared practical advice and comfort, reinforcing bonds within the global Jewish community.

In addition to their outreach in Australia, the Malkas have spoken at various international locations including the United States, France, and Italy. They also frequently deliver talks at Bahad 1, the IDF’s officer training center, as well as at schools and workplaces. Their presentations focus on the values Amit embodied and encourage others to pursue their aspirations, particularly inspiring young people to overcome self-doubt or societal obstacles.

Despite their profound grief, Noa and Itzik have continued with their professional lives—she works as an import manager and he as a lawyer—while finding solace in sharing Amit’s legacy. “We cry several times a day,” Itzik said, describing the ongoing pain. Yet, they find strength in the resilience of Israeli society, which they view as a form of victory. Celebrations, public life, and the freedom to enjoy normal activities stand as testaments to the sacrifices made by Amit and other soldiers.

In Amit’s memory, a new pre-army preparatory program, or mechina, called “Bedarkei Amit” (“The Path of Amit”) has been established in Lod, a city with mixed Jewish and Arab populations. The mechina has grown to accommodate 150 students and serves as a living tribute to Amit’s values and dedication.

Those interested in supporting the mechina or assisting the bereaved families can reach out via the contact email: mechinahadasha@gmail.com.