Eight Israeli soldiers were killed in a devastating explosion in the southern Gaza Strip on June 15, 2024. The incident marked the deadliest attack for Israeli forces since January and occurred while they were returning from a mission in Tal al-Sultan area of Rafah city.
One of the deceased soldiers was identified as Capt. Wassem Mahmoud, a Druze officer from Beit Jann. His death led to the cancellation of all planned celebrations for the Muslim and Druze holiday of Eid-al-Adha in his hometown.
The Israeli military is investigating the cause of the explosion, which could have been caused by a bomb planted ahead of time or directly placed on their armored vehicle. Hamas claimed responsibility for one rocket attack that occurred on Friday night, but it is unclear if this incident is related to the soldiers' deaths.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has vowed to eliminate Hamas and destroy its military and governing capabilities in order to ensure the group no longer poses a threat to Israel. Negotiations for an extended truce and the release of hostages believed to still be held by Hamas are ongoing.
The Israeli government is facing widespread anger over exemptions from military service for ultra-Orthodox men, which has fueled calls for a cease-fire. The conflict began in October 2023 when thousands of Hamas terrorists burst across the border into Israel and killed some 1,200 people and seized 251 hostages. Some 1,000 terrorists were also killed inside Israel on that day.
The Israeli military has been conducting operations in Rafah since dawn local time, with reports of air strikes and artillery shelling. The fighting has resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people and the injury of 95 others over the past 24 hours, according to Ministry of Health in Gaza.
The Israeli military is urging caution as they continue their mission to eliminate Hamas's capabilities and ensure security for Israeli citizens. The international community, including President Joe Biden and members of Netanyahu's coalition, have called for a cease-fire.