Deadly ambush by Palestinian Resistance in Gaza, Israel in shock over disappearance of 4 soldiers
According to Anadolu Agency, one Israeli soldier was killed and 11 others wounded during fierce clashes in Gaza City’s Al-Zeitoun neighborhood, while four soldiers remain missing.
The battles, among the heaviest since October 7, 2023, erupted late Friday as Israeli forces attempted to push deeper into Gaza City. Israeli media described the operation as part of the army’s ongoing bid to seize control of the enclave’s largest urban center, with fighting marked by airstrikes, artillery bombardments, and close-range engagements.
Channel i24 reported that troops advancing into Zeitoun encountered strong resistance from Hamas fighters.
READ ALSO: Israeli forces withdraw from flashpoint Gaza City neighbourhood amid intense resistance
Social media claims circulated about Israeli casualties, though they remain unverified. Israeli authorities have imposed a strict publication ban on the unfolding events, fueling speculation about the fate of the missing soldiers.
Amid concerns that some troops may have been captured, Hamas’ armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, issued a stark warning. “We remind those who forget, death or capture,” the group declared on Telegram, coinciding with reports of an ambush in the area.
Military analysts noted signs that the Israeli army may have invoked the “Hannibal Protocol” a controversial directive aimed at preventing soldier abductions, even at the risk of friendly casualties citing heavy helicopter activity, flares, and intense fire exchanges.
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On Thursday, Abu Obeida, spokesman for al-Qassam Brigades, cautioned that Israel’s plans to occupy Gaza would backfire on its political and military leadership. He said the conditions of urban warfare increased the likelihood of Israeli troops being taken prisoner, adding that hostages would remain on the front lines under the same risks as Palestinian fighters.
The current escalation comes under “Operation Gideon 2,” launched by Defense Minister Israel Katz, focusing on Gaza City’s Zeitoun and Sabra districts. Israel has designated the area a “dangerous combat zone” as bombardments intensify.
Since October 2023, Israel’s campaign has killed more than 63,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza authorities, leaving the enclave in ruins and facing famine. Israel continues to face international legal challenges, including genocide proceedings at the International Court of Justice.
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