Two Israeli Soldiers Killed in Helicopter Crash

Two Israeli soldiers, Sgt. Maj. (res.) Daniel Alloush and Sgt. Maj. (res.) Tom Ish-Shalom, were killed in a Black Hawk helicopter crash during an evacuation mission in the southern Gaza Strip. The helicopter, part of the IAF’s 123rd Squadron, was attempting to transport a wounded soldier when it crashed while landing, reportedly due to a technical malfunction or pilot error, not enemy fire. Initial investigations indicate that the helicopter was not struck during its approach, and the incident occurred shortly before landing at an IDF encampment in Rafah. Alongside the fatalities, several soldiers sustained injuries, with four classified as severe. An inquiry commission has been established by Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Since the onset of the conflict, IAF helicopters have conducted numerous rescue missions, underscoring the critical role of air support in operations.