Lone Soldier Oren Zaydman Becomes Viral Sensation Following Appearance at National Torch-Lighting Ceremony

Lone soldier Oren Zaydman becomes a national sensation after her appearance at the Mount Herzl torch-lighting ceremony leads to modeling offers.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 22, 2026, 12:05 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Makoto

Viral Military Appearance Disrupts National Ceremony Narrative

The traditional televised coverage of Israel’s torch-lighting ceremony on Mount Herzl, typically centered on political figures and designated honorees, shifted focus this week toward an anonymous soldier with a burgundy beret. Oren Zaydman, a member of the Land Forces, became an overnight internet sensation after viewers began circulating screenshots of her participating in the official flag-bearing maneuvers and standing guard behind the evening's torchbearers. The rapid online reaction transcended the official proceedings, with social media platforms becoming flooded with inquiries regarding her identity and praising her appearance during the highly choreographed national event.

Personal Background and Journey as a Lone Soldier

Investigations into the soldier’s identity revealed that Zaydman is a 21-year-old lone soldier who returned to Israel five years ago with the specific intent of completing her high school education and enlisting in the IDF. Her personal narrative is one of significant international mobility; her parents currently serve as diplomats for the Foreign Ministry and are stationed in Honduras along with her two younger sisters. Zaydman, along with another sister who recently enlisted, currently resides with her grandparents in Israel. Despite the geographic distance, Zaydman noted that her family has been exposed to the viral media coverage and has provided emotional support from abroad.

Addressing the Tension Between Beauty and Military Duty

The sudden focus on Zaydman’s physical appearance sparked a secondary debate online regarding the objectification of female soldiers. While some critics argued that the obsession with her looks detracted from her military service, Zaydman clarified in an interview with Makoto that she does not view the attention as offensive. She stated that she chooses to view the public reaction as a matter of national pride, seeing herself primarily as a representative of the army and the country rather than a subject of objectification. This perspective has resonated with many of her new followers, who have framed her visibility as a symbol of the modern Israeli soldier.