On Monday, a tragic incident occurred in southern Gaza where 21 soldiers lost their lives in combat.
This incident marks the deadliest event for Israeli troops in their ongoing conflict with Hamas. The military operation’s objective was to dismantle the military infrastructure of the Palestinian resistance group. However, they faced strong resistance near the Kissufim border community.
According to Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the army spokesman, the attack began when Hamas militants targeted an Israeli tank with a rocket-propelled grenade. Simultaneously, an explosion occurred, causing the collapse of two two-story buildings.
It is important to note that the majority of Israeli forces were either inside or in close proximity to these buildings when they collapsed.
Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the explosion. Initial reports suggest that it may be linked to mines planted by Israeli soldiers.
The army has released the names of ten soldiers, while the families of the remaining eleven have been informed about this tragic incident.
These casualties have increased the number of Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza to 219 since the ground assault began on October 27.
The total number of casualties from the Israeli offensive against Gaza, which started on October 7, is now 556.
It is important to remember that on October 7, after a Jewish holiday, hundreds of Hamas fighters entered Israel through various means and killed civilians in the streets, homes, and even at an outdoor party. This resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,140 people.
In response to these attacks, Israel declared a war with the aim of completely destroying Hamas.