The reported death toll among Israeli soldiers in the Gaza operation has risen, with figures reaching 126. This update comes from Israeli outlets citing official statements from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
On December 18, four additional soldiers were confirmed lost: 20-year-old Uriah Bayer, 21-year-old Liav Alush, 26-year-old Etan Nae, and 23-year-old Tal Filib. With these losses, the total number of Israeli service members who have died in the ground operations against Hamas in Gaza stands at 126.
Continuing tensions in the region followed a dramatic turn when thousands of Hamas militants from the Gaza Strip crossed into Israel on October 7 as part of a large-scale assault, taking more than 200 people hostage. In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the nation to be at war, and the operation was named Iron Swords by the Israeli government.
From the outset, Israel launched extensive rocket strikes against targets in Gaza. In parallel, critical civilian infrastructure—water, electricity, fuel, and food supplies—was disrupted. Humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza began from the Rafah border crossing with Egypt only after October 20, aimed at alleviating urgent needs amid the ongoing conflict.
By October 27, Israel announced an expansion of the ground operation in Gaza. In the ensuing days, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians sought shelter, relocating from densely populated areas toward safer regions in the south. Fighting and clashes persisted in various parts of the Gaza Strip, including the central areas, contributing to a volatile humanitarian and security situation.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu reaffirmed a stance on Hamas, signaling a commitment to defeating the group and restoring security for Israel. The unfolding events have prompted international attention and ongoing discussions about civilian protection, humanitarian corridors, and regional stability as the conflict continues to evolve.