The first operational incident since the launch of Operation “Might and Sword” in Gaza claimed the life today (Saturday) of Chief Sergeant Suleiman al-Nassasra, 35, from Rahat, a tracker in the Northern Brigade of the Gaza Division. According to the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, al-Nassasra was killed in a battle near the Sevivon neighborhood in Beit Hanoun, when an IDF force was attacked with anti-tank missile fire and an explosive device during operations along an administrative route. Five additional soldiers were wounded—four of them seriously—including three female soldiers from the 414th Combat Intelligence Collection Battalion.
The incident began at 12:58 p.m., when a terrorist squad emerged from a tunnel shaft and fired an RPG at an unarmored Jeep Wrangler. The female soldiers sustained serious injuries and were airlifted by helicopter to Beilinson and Barzilai hospitals. A rescue force, led by the Northern Brigade commander, arrived at the scene approximately 30 minutes later. During the evacuation, a powerful explosive device was detonated near the trackers’ vehicle. Chief Sergeant Galeb Nassar was killed in the blast, and two other soldiers were seriously wounded.
“The terrorists were forced out – and tried to harm our forces”
According to an initial investigation, IDF forces had been operating over the past week in the tunnel from which the terrorist cell emerged. The tunnel, located in the buffer zone, extends all the way to the border fence. Explosives were planted in the tunnel yesterday to destroy it, which may have triggered the terrorists to launch an offensive action.
Defense Minister Israel Katz said: “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of Chief Sergeant Galeb Nassar z”l. I wish a full recovery to the wounded soldiers and express my deep appreciation to the IDF soldiers fighting with courage. The IDF will exact a heavy price and increase the pressure in Gaza – until all the war’s objectives are achieved.”
