Israel’s military reported on Friday the deaths of four soldiers during operations in Gaza, prompting a call for a significant increase in troop deployment as the government faces internal challenges over ultra-Orthodox conscription. The announcement coincided with a grim day for Gaza, where the local civil defense agency reported that Israeli airstrikes had left 38 Palestinians dead, amid ongoing hostilities during the Eid al-Adha holiday.
Military spokesman Effie Defrin confirmed that the soldiers were killed while operating in Khan Yunis at a site associated with Hamas. An explosive device detonated, leading to the collapse of part of the structure and injuring five other soldiers, one of them seriously. A statement attributed to Abu Obeida, a spokesperson for Hamas’s military wing, highlighted the ongoing risks to Israeli forces in the region and called on the Israeli public to demand an end to the conflict or face further losses.
This incident brings the total number of Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza to 429 since the ground offensive began in late October 2023, in response to a Hamas attack that ignited the current war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended his condolences, emphasizing the sacrifices made by soldiers for national safety.
The military’s call for additional troops comes as it faces a possible shortfall of around 10,000 soldiers, with approximately 6,000 needed in combat roles. During a press briefing, Defrin noted that upcoming draft cycles would see tens of thousands of conscription notices issued. The question of ultra-Orthodox conscription has created significant tension within Netanyahu’s coalition government, with ultra-Orthodox parties threatening to withdraw support unless military exemptions for their community are codified into law. This backdrop has fueled public dissatisfaction, particularly among reservists’ families who are increasingly burdened by repeated call-ups during the ongoing war.
In light of these developments, Netanyahu’s office indicated late Friday that he had met with a Likud lawmaker working on legislation aimed at increasing ultra-Orthodox military enlistment and imposing stricter penalties for those who refuse. Meanwhile, Netanyahu has come under scrutiny for reportedly supporting an armed group in Gaza that opposes Hamas, which critics have labeled as a criminal organization involved in looting aid.
As fighting continues, Gaza’s humanitarian situation has deteriorated drastically, with severe shortages of food and other essentials exacerbated by an Israeli blockade. The constraints have significantly impacted the observance of Eid al-Adha, traditionally a time for family celebrations marked by special meals and gifts. Residents expressed sorrow and lamentation, with stories emerging of families unable to celebrate due to the violence.
In one particularly heartbreaking account, a mother recounted how her son never had the chance to wear new clothes she had purchased for Eid, instead being taken from her in death. The ongoing conflict has left a deep scar on the fabric of both Israeli and Palestinian communities, as lives are profoundly affected by loss and grief.
The recent Israeli military escalation follows a period of heightened tension since Hamas launched its unprecedented attack on Israel, leading to significant civilian casualties on both sides. According to the latest figures, the Israeli offensive in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least 4,402 Palestinians.
