The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported the deaths of two more soldiers in Gaza, bringing the total troop casualties to 44 since the commencement of the ground offensive on October 27. The fallen soldiers, Major Isachar Nathan (28) from Kiryat Malachi and Staff Sgt Itay Shoham (21) from Rosh Hayin, belonged to the elite Commando Brigade unit and lost their lives in clashes with Hamas terrorists within the Gaza Strip.
The IDF’s ground operation has advanced to the center of Gaza, aiming to capture key control centers of Hamas, including their command facilities. The IDF faces challenges posed by the extensive network of almost 1,300 underground tunnels in the Gaza Strip, hindering the military’s progress in the ongoing conflict.