Intense Weekend Battles in Gaza Claim Lives of at Least 166 Palestinians, 14 Israeli Soldiers
The Israeli military announced on Sunday the death of 14 soldiers in the Gaza Strip, marking some of the deadliest days for Israel since the onset of ground operations.
The war began on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked southern Israeli communities, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting more than 240 hostages. The conflict has ravaged Gaza, resulting in approximately 20,300 Palestinian deaths and displacing nearly 85% of the coastal strip’s 2.3 million residents.
Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 166 deaths in the enclave in the last day alone. Despite the soaring death toll and international criticism of the offensive, Israelis largely support the military’s goals to dismantle Hamas’ governance and military capabilities and secure the release of the remaining 129 hostages.
The emotional impact of soldiers’ deaths in Israel, where military service is mandatory for most Jews, could, however, sway public opinion. The country mourns these losses profoundly, with most families having a direct or indirect connection to someone affected by the war.
The recent casualties occurred in central and southern Gaza, indicating Hamas’ robust defense against Israeli forces. Four soldiers died from an anti-tank missile, while others lost their lives in various skirmishes. Another soldier was killed in northern Israel by Hizbullah, heightening concerns of a broader regional conflict. The total number of Israeli military fatalities since the ground offensive began is now 153.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains determined to continue the fight, despite public frustration over his government’s policies and handling of the crisis. Large-scale protests in Tel Aviv have called for Netanyahu’s resignation.
On the Palestinian front, the situation remains dire, with civilian casualties, including women and children, constituting the majority of deaths. An Israeli drone strike recently killed a 13-year-old boy in Khan Younis. Moreover, international pressure mounts as the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution for speedy humanitarian aid delivery and hostage release, but stopped short of demanding a cease-fire.
