Deadliest Day for Israeli Soldiers in Gaza Conflict since War with Hamas Began
Twenty-four Israeli soldiers were killed during fighting in southern Gaza on Monday, the military said, in the deadliest day for its troops inside the battered enclave since the war with Hamas began.
Multiple Soldiers Killed in One Incident
Twenty-one soldiers were killed in one incident, when a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) was fired towards a tank protecting the unit. Two two-story buildings then collapsed following an explosion, which likely was caused by explosives that had been laid by the Israeli troops.
Most of the Israeli forces killed were in or near the buildings, IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in a separate televised statement.
High Palestinian Casualty Numbers
The Hamas-controlled health ministry in Gaza reported that the number of Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks since October 7 has risen to 25,295, with over 63,000 injuries.
The tank attack came as Israel seemingly shifts into a new phase of fighting, with officials promising a less intense, more targeted approach.
Unresolved Investigation into Building Explosion
The IDF spokesperson told CNN that it is still unclear what caused the building explosion that resulted in the deaths of the soldiers. All families have been notified but only 10 names have been released so far.
Another soldier was seriously injured in the same incident, according to IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari.
New Phase of Operations in Gaza
The Israeli military has been conducting a large-scale bombing campaign in Gaza since the October 7 murder and kidnapping rampage by Hamas gunmen. The recent focus has been in southern Gaza, particularly around the city of Khan Younis.
The IDF announced that the city is now surrounded and dozens of terrorists have been killed in the past 24 hours by IDF ground troops in coordination with the Israeli air force.
