Chabad Member Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz, 22, Killed In Lebanon

Katz was a resident of New Haven, Connecticut and served in the Israel Defense Forces.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz, a 22-year-old member of the Chabad community in New Haven, Connecticut, was killed in combat with Hezbollah while serving in the Israel Defense Forces in Lebanon. His father, Mendy Katz, confirmed the tragic news, describing Moshe as having a 'zest for life and jokes' and saying his 'heart is shattered' by the loss.

Why it matters

The death of Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz is a devastating loss for the Chabad community in New Haven, as well as the broader Jewish community. Katz's service and sacrifice in the IDF highlights the ongoing tensions and conflicts in the Middle East that continue to impact Jewish communities worldwide.

The details

Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz was killed while engaged in combat with Hezbollah forces in Lebanon. He was a member of the Israel Defense Forces at the time of his death. Katz's father, Mendy Katz, shared the news of his son's passing, describing him as having a vibrant personality and a deep connection to the Chabad community in New Haven.

  • Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz was killed in combat in Lebanon on March 29, 2026.

The players

Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz

A 22-year-old resident of New Haven, Connecticut and member of the Chabad community who was serving in the Israel Defense Forces when he was killed in combat with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Mendy Katz

The father of Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz, who confirmed the tragic news of his son's death and described him as having a 'zest for life and jokes'.

Devorah Katz

The mother of Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz and a longtime member of the Chabad community in New Haven, Connecticut.

Henshy

A family friend who reflected on the loss of Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz, saying he 'leaves a void that aches through every corner of our community'.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“With unspeakable tragedy, I regret to inform you that my 22 year old son Moshe Yitzchak, a sergeant in the IDF, fell in battle in Lebanon.”

— Mendy Katz, Father of Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz

“He leaves a void that aches through every corner of our community. The pain we share is raw and heavy, but so is our love for Mendy, his family, and all who mourn. May we surround them with warmth, courage, and unwavering support in these darkest hours. May his memory be a blessing, now and forever.”

— Henshy, Family friend

What’s next

The family is currently flying to Israel to be present for Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz's funeral, which will take place in Israel.

The takeaway

The tragic death of Sgt. Moshe Yitzchak Katz, a young member of the Chabad community in New Haven, Connecticut, who was serving in the IDF, highlights the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the sacrifices made by Jewish communities worldwide. His loss will be deeply felt by his family, friends, and the broader Chabad community.