An Israeli reservist in his 30s who spent months serving in Gaza has won 15 million shekels in the national lottery. He claimed the first prize about two weeks after the April 18 draw, saying he had a strong feeling he would eventually win despite rarely playing.

The winner said he checked the numbers on the lottery application shortly after the draw and quickly realized he had won. He kept the news to himself at first, taking a walk to process what he described as a significant responsibility to make wise decisions with the money. His arrival at lottery headquarters was delayed due to his ongoing reserve duty.

He plans to use part of the prize to establish a nonprofit organization, emphasizing the importance of giving and helping others. After collecting his winnings, he said he would return to reserve duty while carefully considering his next steps.