In a significant escalation of the Israel-Gaza conflict, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have reported the loss of 24 soldiers in Gaza on Monday, marking the deadliest day for Israeli forces since the commencement of their ground operation. This tragic incident has intensified the already volatile situation in the region.
The majority of the casualties, 21 reservists, were killed in a catastrophic explosion in central Gaza near the kibbutz of Kissufim, located close to the Israeli border. The IDF’s chief spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, stated that the explosion likely resulted from a rocket-propelled grenade launched by Palestinian armed fighters. The grenade is believed to have struck a tank positioned near two buildings where the soldiers were stationed. Further, the IDF suspects that the buildings’ detonation was a consequence of mines previously planted by Israeli forces for demolition purposes.
Rear Admiral Hagari further elaborated that the soldiers were engaged in an operation aimed at ensuring the safe return of southern Israel’s residents. These residents had been evacuated following an attack by Hamas on October 7. Additionally, the IDF confirmed the deaths of three officers in a separate incident in southern Gaza on the same day.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a statement released on X (formerly known as Twitter), referred to Monday’s events as “one of the most difficult days since the war erupted.” He emphasized Israel’s determination to continue fighting until achieving absolute victory, honoring the sacrifices of the fallen soldiers.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed profound sorrow upon learning of the casualties, offering condolences to the bereaved families and praying for the recovery of the wounded.
The current conflict, initiated by Israel with the stated objective of neutralizing Hamas following their attack that resulted in the deaths of 1,300 individuals (mostly civilians) and the taking of approximately 250 hostages, has led to a significant loss of life on both sides. As per the IDF website, the Israeli ground invasion, which began on October 27, has seen 217 soldier fatalities out of a total of 545 since October 7. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports at least 25,295 casualties, predominantly women and children, due to the Israeli military campaign.
The surge in violence and the mounting death toll highlight the dire need for a resolution to this long-standing conflict, underscoring the urgency of international intervention and peace-building efforts in the region.
