The Israeli military has reported 240 soldier fatalities in the Gaza Strip since the escalation began with the ground operation. These figures originate from official military sources and reflect losses within the ground campaign. Over the course of the conflict, the total casualties among Israeli military personnel have climbed to 579. These numbers underscore the human cost of the operation in southern Gaza and the continuing security challenge faced by Israeli forces. (Source: IDF attribution)
On February 25, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented that the military operation by the Israeli Armed Forces in the city of Rafah, located in the southern Gaza Strip, is unavoidable. He indicated that while a pause in negotiations is possible, a complete halt to the operation is not an option. The remarks suggest a strategic calculation that prioritizes the military objective amid ongoing diplomatic efforts. (Source: Israeli government transcripts)
On the same day, Josep Borrell, the European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stated that Israeli authorities began to use hunger as a tactic during the Gaza operation. The claim points to concerns about civilian harm and humanitarian conditions as the conflict continues. (Source: EU Office of the High Representative)
Earlier reports indicated that the Israeli security cabinet decided to send a delegation to Qatar to pursue negotiations aimed at securing a deal to release hostages held in Gaza. The move signals continued diplomatic engagement alongside military actions, with negotiators seeking a path to de-escalation and humanitarian resolutions. (Source: diplomatic briefings)
Meanwhile, outside the immediate Gaza context, there were reports of renewed air and missile activity attributed to the United States and the United Kingdom targeting targets in Yemen. The broader regional security dynamics reflect multi-front pressures and counterterrorism efforts in the greater Middle East. (Source: defense updates and regional briefing summaries)