Israel Katz : “8 Israeli Soldiers Killed in Gaza Attack”

See How to lose belly fat in a week?

JERUSALEM (AP) — An explosion in southern Gaza has resulted in the death of eight Israeli soldiers, marking the deadliest attack on Israeli forces in months.

The attack, occurring more than eight months into an ongoing conflict, is likely to intensify calls for a cease-fire by Israeli protesters. It comes at a time when the government is facing widespread criticism over exemptions from military service granted to young ultra-Orthodox men.

Check out this Rice Hack for Losing Weight

Israel initiated an air and ground invasion of Gaza following a cross-border attack by Hamas and other militants on Oct. 7, which resulted in the death of 1,200 people and the taking of 250 hostages. The Israeli offensive has claimed the lives of over 37,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials. The ongoing conflict has also led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with over 80% of the population displaced and facing severe food shortages due to Israeli restrictions and ongoing fighting.

The explosion occurred in Rafah, a southern city identified as Hamas’ last major stronghold by Israel. Israeli ground troops entered the city in early May, and the operation shows no signs of concluding soon.

Related Post : Try not to Marvel When You see Barron Trump's Girlfriend.

---

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, stating, “They knew they might have to sacrifice their lives, but they did it so we could live in this country. I salute them and hug their families.”

Israeli Response and Cease-Fire Efforts

The Israeli military indicated that the explosion was caused by either an explosive device planted by Hamas or an anti-tank missile. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated, “We need to defeat the Rafah Brigade of Hamas, and we are doing this with determination.”

President Joe Biden recently proposed a new cease-fire plan that aims to secure the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza and halt the ongoing conflict. While the international community has shown support for the plan, both Israel and Hamas have expressed reservations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the war until Hamas’ military and governing capabilities are destroyed.

Netanyahu expressed grief over the loss of the soldiers, stating, “Today we paid another heartbreaking price in our just war for the defense of the homeland.”

Divisions Within Israel

The inconclusive war has divided the Israeli public, with many calling for a resolution to bring the hostages home. The government has declared over 40 hostages held by Hamas to be deceased, with concerns that the number may rise if they remain in captivity.

The deadly explosion comes amidst controversy over the extension of military draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men in Netanyahu’s coalition. The move has sparked outrage as the death toll continues to climb in conflicts with Hamas and Hezbollah.

Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, was the sole member of Netanyahu’s coalition to vote against the legislation, emphasizing the need for all sectors of society to contribute equally to the war efforts.

Calls for Change and Cease-Fire Negotiations

Thousands of people gathered in anti-government protests, demanding new elections and the release of the hostages. Demonstrators stressed the urgency of bringing about change to prevent further loss of life.

Months of cease-fire negotiations have failed to reach a consensus between Israel and Hamas. The recent proposal by President Biden includes provisions for a permanent cease-fire and Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, but Hamas remains cautious about Israel’s commitment.

Violence has also escalated in the West Bank, with a 16-year-old Palestinian being shot dead by Israeli forces during a counterterrorism operation near Nablus.

The ongoing conflict underscores the challenges faced by both Israelis and Palestinians, highlighting the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to end the suffering and loss of life in the region.