Yaakov Banai
Lehi commander (1920–2009)
Yaakov Banai, born Yaakov Tunkel, was a prominent figure in the Lehi movement, adopting the alias Mazal. He played a crucial role as the commander of the organization's combat unit, overseeing various military operations. Born in 1920, Banai's life was marked by his involvement in activism, which would become a defining aspect of his career.
As a senior member of Lehi, Banai was instrumental in planning and executing numerous encounters against British and Arab targets. His activities spanned the Mandate period and the 1947-1949 Palestine war, leaving a significant mark on the region's history. Banai's life came to a close in 2009, at the age of 89, bringing an end to a long and eventful life dedicated to his cause.