Yael Bar, a well-known influencer, highlighted the remarkable story of Yonatan Barkat, a 22-year-old Columbia University freshman and recently released IDF combat soldier.
Amidst the conflict sparked by Hamas’ aggression against Israel, Barkat, who had just embarked on his first semester at Columbia, felt compelled to return home and serve in the reserves. Despite his unit being at full capacity, Barkat persevered, ultimately joining a combat battalion in Gaza alongside his father, a 60-year-old businessman who also volunteered for service.
Barkat, drawing on his experience with drones, identified a critical need within his unit for enhanced reconnaissance capabilities. Despite his junior rank, he managed to secure a meeting with his unit commander, a colonel, during the height of the conflict. Presenting his idea for utilizing drones as “eyes” on the battlefield, Barkat received immediate approval and encouragement from the commander to pursue his initiative.
Realizing the challenge of obtaining 100 drones amidst wartime bureaucracy, Barkat took an unconventional approach: crowdfunding. Through grassroots efforts in Israel, Barkat successfully raised over $1 million, enabling the procurement of 130 drones for his unit.
These drones, now an integral part of the unit’s operations, have played a pivotal role in saving lives by detecting explosive devices and uncovering terrorist tunnels. Barkat’s innovation has earned praise for its effectiveness, with some instances even leading to the surrender of Hamas militants upon the drones’ detection.
In reflecting on his journey, Barkat emphasized a message of unwavering commitment and resilience: “You can count on us.”
Barkat’s story serves as a testament to the resourcefulness and determination of the Israeli people, particularly the younger generation, in confronting challenges and safeguarding their homeland. Mi Kiamcha Yisroel.
