Israel’s military announced on Saturday that eight soldiers were killed in southern Gaza in the deadliest attack on Israeli forces in months.
The troops were killed in an explosion, the army stated, without providing further details. The fatalities are likely to increase demands for a cease-fire and intensify Israeli public outrage over ultra-Orthodox military exemptions.
In January, 21 Israeli troops were killed in a single attack by Palestinian militants in Gaza.
Recently, Israel’s Supreme Court ruled to end government subsidies for many ultra-Orthodox men who do not serve in the military. Although a new draft law has not been enacted, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition recently voted to extend exemptions for religious men, causing controversy during a time when many soldiers have perished in the ongoing conflict.
Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, emphasized that all segments of Israeli society must contribute equally during the war against Hamas militants in Gaza.
Anti-government demonstrations in Tel Aviv have persisted for months, with protestors calling for the safe return of hostages and for Netanyahu’s resignation.
Israel’s offensive actions in Gaza have resulted in over 37,000 Palestinian casualties, according to Palestinian health authorities. The conflict has displaced 80% of Gaza’s population, hindering humanitarian efforts and leading to widespread hunger.
The war between Israel and Hamas began when Hamas and other militants attacked Israel, resulting in casualties and hostages. Mahmoud Abbas, the chairman of the Palestinian Liberation Organization, has been involved in negotiations to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Despite ongoing cease-fire talks, Hamas continues to push for a permanent agreement and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza as preconditions for releasing the hostages.
Violence has also erupted in the West Bank, with a 16-year-old Palestinian being fatally shot by Israeli forces near Nablus, according to reports from the Health Ministry.
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