In a palpable display of grief, the UK government disclosed on October 7 that no less than seven British citizens have succumbed to death in the unforeseen assault by Hamas on Israel. Additionally, nine more Brits are reportedly missing, with fears escalating concerning their potential demise or captivity within the boundaries of Gaza.
As the narrative continues to unfold, the particulars regarding the victims’ identities and circumstances are gradually coming to light.
Lianne and Yahel Sharabi, who hail from Britain, were among the first casualties to be identified. Following the assault on Kibbutz Be’eri, Lianne’s mortal remains were located, as reported by her kin. In the days post attack, the couple’s daughters, Noiya and Yahel, aged 16 and 13 respectively, were numbered among the missing. Subsequently, on October 17, it was established that Yahel, too, had perished, while Noiya’s whereabouts remain unknown.
Born on British soil, Lianne had relocated to Israel upon marrying Eli, who too is counted amongst the missing. The family expressed in a statement their profound loss, calling Lianne the “illuminating essence of our familial bond”.
Renowned for her tender-hearted care and assistance extended to those in need, her light-hearted humor will be remembered fondly. “She will forever reside within our hearts, her cherished memory interwoven with the fondest recollections of her 48-year existence.”
Yahel, their daughter, was an energetic youth who had a zest for life. Known for her fast-paced bike rides, singing, and dancing antics; a passionate adventurer, she loved everything from scuba diving and sky diving to zip-lining. She leaves behind a void in our lives that can never be filled.
Nathanel Young, another British national, who was 20-years-old, met his untimely death in the attack. Nathanel attended JFS Jewish School in north London, prior to his relocation to Israel for military service. The news of his demise left the school authorities and students heartbroken.
Bernard Cowan, a Glasgow native who had made Israel his home, was also a victim. A regular visitor to the Glasgow Friends of Israel’s peace advocacy stall, his death was a shock to his fellow peace advocates.
The assault claimed another British casualty – Jake Marlowe, who was providing security services at the Supernova music festival, where the brutality took the highest toll of 260 lives. Marlowe had recently moved to Israel in 2021, where he was a passionate musician and DJ.
Lastly, Daniel Darlington is believed to be one of the deceased by his family. Originally Manchester, Darlington was a resident of Berlin and was in Israel visiting friends at the time of the attack.
These heartbreaking stories are a grim reminder of the tragic reality and the ultimate cost of conflict. Conversations shift from life’s simple pleasures to a solemn acknowledgment of lives lost and forever altered.
