IDF Brigade Commander Colonel Ehsan Daqsa has been Killed in Northern Gaza Fighting

According to the military statement, Daqsa was killed when explosive devices struck his tank and another armored vehicle during operations in Jabaliya. His death raises the total number of Israeli military fatalities since October 7 to 749, with nearly 5,000 reported injuries across Gaza, the West Bank, and northern Israel.

Escalating Conflict

Earlier, Hamas’s armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility for targeting Israeli soldiers and military vehicles in Jabaliya, stating that two soldiers were successfully shot and that missiles hit an Israeli Merkava tank and a Namer troop carrier. The ongoing IDF offensive, now in its 16th day, continues amid severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

Tributes to Colonel Daqsa

Col. Daqsa is remembered as a brave and dedicated leader. He left behind his wife, Hoda, and three children—Omri, Rif, and Yasmin, aged 4, 9, and 14. His community has expressed deep sorrow, highlighting his role as a mentor for many young Druze recruits considering military service. Dr. Ramzi Halavi, chairman of Yad Labanim of the Druze community, described Daqsa as a "hero of Israel" and emphasized the loss felt by both his family and the wider community.

Official Condolences

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences to the families of fallen soldiers, acknowledging the heavy toll of the ongoing conflict. Defense Minister Yoav Galant also honored Daqsa’s memory, calling him a bold commander who exemplified the values of leadership and commitment to the nation.

Continued Military Operations

The IDF remains focused on its mission to combat Hamas, asserting that it will continue to engage in operations until its objectives are met, despite the heavy casualties and humanitarian crisis in the region.