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Over 21 Israeli soldiers were killed in one attack while carrying out a mission in central Gaza, making it the most lethal event in terms of IDF casualties since their conflict with Hamas started over 100 days ago.
The number of casualties among Palestinians in Gaza has surpassed 25,000, according to the Gaza health ministry. The ministry does not differentiate between deaths of militants and civilians.
According to reports from Israeli media, while preparing explosives to demolish two buildings in central Gaza on Monday, Israeli soldiers were targeted by militants who launched a rocket-propelled grenade at a nearby tank.
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Israeli troops are currently active in the Gaza Strip, amidst the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist organization.
The soldiers were trapped inside the collapsing buildings after a massive explosion occurred following the strike.
According to Israel’s Channel 13, there is a possibility that the number of casualties may increase and additional victims may be identified and announced.
The fatalities may add to the pressure within Israel to stop their attack on Gaza, which was initiated after a Hamas terrorist attack on southern Israel on October 7th resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals.
On Tuesday, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed that it was a challenging and sorrowful morning. He also stated, “Our thoughts are with the beloved families during this trying time.”
Loved ones and advocates of the Israeli captives being held by the Hamas militant organization in the Gaza Strip gather for a demonstration at the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, demanding their release.
The speaker stated that this conflict will have a lasting impact on the future of Israel. The sacrifices made by soldiers motivate us to succeed in our objectives for this battle.
According to Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, spokesperson for the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), the soldiers were conducting operations approximately 600m from the border near Kissufim when the building collapsed while they were inside.
According to Rear Adm Hagari, terrorists fired an RPG at a tank protecting the forces around 4pm. At the same time, two two-story buildings exploded, causing them to collapse. Many of the forces were in or near the buildings at the time.
Emergency responders have been dispatched to the location to search for any survivors. A thorough inquiry is also underway to determine the cause of the explosion that caused the building’s collapse.
“He informed us during the press briefing that we are currently in the process of studying and examining the specifics of the incident and the cause of the explosion.”
Demonstrators pour red paint onto the street to represent the bloodshed of the Israeli hostages in Gaza following the 7 October assaults.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog described it as a “morning of unbearable difficulty” and expressed confidence in Israel’s victory.
“He stated that he represents the entire country and offers condolences to the families while also praying for the recovery of those who were injured. Despite the sadness and challenges of this morning, we remain resilient and united in our determination to overcome.”
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly dismissed growing international pressure for a ceasefire in Gaza and to consider a two-state solution for Palestinians, widening the apparent rift with his closest international allies, including Joe Biden.
Israel has remained determined to fulfill its promise of defeating Hamas and securing the release of over 100 hostages being held in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently facing backlash from his own citizens, as thousands have taken to the streets of Tel Aviv to protest against his leadership. They are calling for a new election due to accusations of mishandling national security.
On Monday, a group of individuals who were related to hostages disrupted a meeting of a parliamentary committee. They were demanding a resolution to secure the freedom of their family members.
In the span of approximately four months, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza has resulted in the deaths of approximately 25,000 Palestinians, with a majority of these being women and children. Additionally, nearly two million individuals have been displaced, as reported by health officials in Gaza. The once thriving city now lies in ruins, with a significant portion of its population seeking shelter in overcrowded relief camps where there is a high prevalence of hunger and illness.
Source: independent.co.uk
