Three IDF Soldiers Killed in Gaza Explosion

Three reserve soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were killed in northern Gaza when their vehicle struck an explosive device during ongoing military operations against Hamas. The deceased include Major (res.) Netanel Hershkovitz, 37, Master Sergeant (res.) Ori Moshe Borenstein, 32, and Master Sergeant (res.) Tzvi Matityahu Marantz, 32, all members of the IDF's 5460th support unit. Their deaths raise the total number of Israeli soldiers killed since the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, to 734. Funeral services for the soldiers are scheduled for Thursday night at Mount Herzl military cemetery. The IDF's operations in Gaza have intensified following the October 7 attacks by Hamas, which resulted in significant casualties, including over 42,000 deaths in Gaza, predominantly among civilians. The conflict has further spread to Lebanon amid regional tensions, with Israel conducting airstrikes that have resulted in numerous casualties.