Tragedy strikes as Ilan Troen, a distinguished professor at Brandeis University, mourns the loss of his daughter Deborah Mathias, slain by Hamas terrorists in Israel.

Who is Ilan Troen?

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In a tragic turn of events, the daughter and son-in-law of Boston college professor Ilan Troen were killed in an attack in Israel by the militant group Hamas. Deborah Mathias, 50, and her husband Shlomi were among the roughly 700 persons murdered in the weekend wave of violence that swept through Israel.

The incident occurred when Hamas terrorists forced their way into the family’s home. Roten, Deborah and Shlomi’s 16-year-old son, tragically watched his parents’ horrible death when the attackers broke down doors and opened fire on the family.

Deborah’s final act required tremendous bravery. Despite suffering a gunshot wound herself, she defended her kid with her own body, taking the bullets intended for him and ultimately saving his life.

Professor Ilan Troen, a prominent figure in Israel studies at Brandeis University, was in Israel at the time and raced to the hospital to be with his grandson. Deborah and Shlomi’s injuries, on the other hand, were fatal.

Brandeis University, where Ilan Troen is a valued faculty member and alumnus, expressed sincere regret at the loss. The university strongly condemned the terrorist attacks that killed Professor Troen’s daughter and son-in-law.

The violence in Israel is escalating, with Hamas militants wreaking havoc and claiming countless lives. Over 700 people have been killed in Israel, according to Israeli authorities, including at least nine Americans. Over 400 Palestinians have died as a result of Israeli retaliatory attacks on Gaza. The situation remains dangerous, with Hamas taking hostages and the Israeli government declaring war.

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In this period of sorrow and uncertainty, Professor Ilan Troen, known for his academic contributions, and his family find themselves dealing with the profound loss inflicted by the violence in the region.