An Israel Defence Forces (IDF) officer was killed overnight Monday after an anti-tank rocket hit his tank in northern Gaza City, the military announced, the first fatality since Israel launched its renewed ground offensive, reported the Jerusalem Post.
The slain soldier was named as Major Shahar Netanel Bozaglo, 27, a company commander in the 7th Armored Brigade’s 77th Battalion.
His death brings the total number of Israeli soldiers killed in the ground operation in the Palestinian enclave to 465.
Over 640,000 Palestinians have reportedly fled south, as Hamas claims 38 Gazans killed in 24 hours. The operation faces criticism over risks to hostages and worsening humanitarian conditions.
