Giora Balash

Aug 9, 2001 - Giora Balash, 60, of Brazil, was one of 15 people killed in a suicide bombing in the heart of Jerusalem, inside a crowded pizza restaurant.

Carrying the explosives in a bag strapped to his body, the terrorist entered the Sbarro pizzeria at the corner of King George Street and Jaffa Road in downtown Jerusalem just before 2 PM. The 5 kg.-10 kg. bomb, which was packed with nails, screws, and bolts, completely gutted the restaurant, which was full of lunchtime diners.

Giora Balash and his wife, Flora, were in Israel to celebrate the marriage of their son. Flora was injured in the blast.

Giora Balash was buried in Ashkelon.