The Israeli military said the officer was taking part in an operation to place and detonate explosives inside structures in Khan Younis. The officer held a commanding role in the reconnaissance unit of the elite Golani Brigade, a key infantry formation in the Israeli army. He was struck by shrapnel during the mission, resulting in his death.

The army did not release further operational details but confirmed the officer’s death and his role during the combat operation.

Ongoing Military Operations In Gaza

The incident occurred against the backdrop of continued Israeli ground and air operations in the Gaza Strip. Khan Younis, a city in the southern part of the enclave, has been a focus of repeated Israeli raids in recent months. The Israeli army has intensified demolition activities and combat operations in several urban areas in Gaza, citing security objectives.

This fatality adds to a growing list of Israeli military casualties since the escalation of hostilities began. Israeli operations in the area have been met with resistance from armed Palestinian groups, leading to frequent close-quarter combat scenarios.