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Thousands gathered Tuesday evening for the funeral of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reservist Jordan Cooper, a lone soldier originally from the United States, who tragically died following a rare allergic reaction.

Cooper’s family had urged the public to attend in light of many relatives being unable to reach Israel due to widespread flight cancellations from the U.S., amid escalating tensions with Iran.

The Ganei Esther Cemetery in Rishon Lezion was packed as mourners filled every space. The funeral, held at 10 p.m., took place just two hours after the conclusion of the Tisha B’Av fast, a solemn day in the Jewish calendar.