SOUTHERN LEBANON — The Israel Defense Forces confirmed that Sergeant Moshe Yitzchak Hacohen Katz, 22, was killed during a combat operation in southern Lebanon. Three other soldiers were moderately wounded in the attack, according to the IDF.

The Israeli military identified the soldier as Sergeant Moshe Yitzchak Hacohen Katz, 22, who was assigned to the 890th Battalion, Paratroopers Brigade. According to family members, Katz was originally from New Haven, Connecticut.

Katz arrived in Israel in 2025 without being able to speak Hebrew, according to Adina Katz. He completed a language preparatory program before enlisting and finished military training a few weeks before his death. Family members attended his graduation from military training, according to family members.

About a year after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed about 1,200 people, Moshe Katz decided to move to Israel, according to Adina Katz. "He gave it his all and finished his beret march with a smile," Adina Katz said.

Katz came from a family with deep roots in New Haven's Jewish community. Because of his faith, Katz felt a strong connection to Israel and its people.

"My heart is shattered and the wound is real," Mendy Katz said. In a Facebook post, Katz said his son had a zest for life and enjoyed laughter with those around him.

His parents and other family members traveled to Israel to attend his funeral scheduled for Sunday. Benjamin Netanyahu offered condolences to the family.

Israeli officials said ground operations are expanding to target Hezbollah positions and rocket-launching infrastructure. The IDF said that over 850 Hezbollah operatives have been killed since the escalation began.

Hezbollah claimed responsibility for recent attacks. About 2,500 U.S. Marines have arrived in the region.

Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have entered the monthlong war in the region. Regional powers plan to meet in Pakistan to discuss ending the fighting in the Middle East.

Katz's death represents a U.S.-linked casualty in the conflict.